Simplifying Adhesive Cementation: A Predictable Workflow for Anterior Ceramic Veneers

Adhesive cementation is one of the most technique-sensitive procedures in restorative dentistry. Long-term success depends on proper substrate management, adhesive strategy and cement selection. Simplified cementation protocols that reduce clinical steps while maintaining high bond strength may improve predictability and efficiency. This clinical case illustrates the replacement of defective anterior ceramic veneers following a fully adhesive protocol using RelyX™ Universal Resin Cement (Solventum, St. Paul, MN, USA).

Initial situation

Fig.1
A 46-year-old female presented dissatisfied with the esthetic appearance of her existing ceramic veneers because of color mismatch and compromised integration with the adjacent dentition.

High smile line

Fig.2
Initial clinical situation showing a high smile line associated with gingival recessions affecting the maxillary central incisors, gingival asymmetry and defective ceramic veneers, all contributing to an esthetically compromised smile.

Intraoral view with the dental arches in maximum intercuspation

Fig.3
Intraoral view with the dental arches in maximum intercuspation, showing the existing restorations and the patient’s occlusal relationships.

Slightly open intraoral view

Fig.4
Slightly open intraoral view allowing evaluation of the harmony of the incisal edges before treatment.

Digital scan

Fig.5
Intraoral digital scan performed to analyze smile characteristics and facilitate prosthetic treatment planning.

Tooth whitening

Fig.6
Treatment began with a tooth whitening procedure, creating a brighter and more homogeneous substrate that facilitated shade selection and improved the predictability of the definitive restorations.

Polarized image

Fig.7
Polarized images were obtained to accurately record the initial tooth color and support communication with the dental laboratory during restorative planning.

Shade selection

Fig.8
Defining the target shade before whitening establishes a clear restorative objective and facilitates communication throughout the treatment workflow.

Progress of the whitening treatment

Fig.9
Progress of the whitening treatment was monitored using the maxillary canines as a reference, confirming that the desired shade had been achieved before initiating the restorative phase.

Verification of the final post-whitening shade

Fig.10
Verification of the final post-whitening shade, providing a stable esthetic baseline before restorative treatment.

A diagnostic mock-up

Fig.11
A diagnostic mock-up was performed to visualize the final restorative outcome and accurately guide the gingival harmonization procedure.

Surgical crown lengthening

Fig.12
Surgical crown lengthening was carried out to redefine the gingival architecture and improve smile symmetry before the restorative phase.

Follow-up examination

Fig.13
Follow-up examination confirming adequate healing and stability of the gingival tissues after crown lengthening.

After surgery

Fig.14
As complete soft tissue maturation had not yet been achieved, restorative treatment was postponed to allow further periodontal healing.

Removal of the existing ceramic veneers

Fig.15
Once complete soft tissue maturation had been achieved, the existing ceramic veneers were carefully removed, and a digital intraoral scan was obtained for the fabrication of the definitive restorations.

Provisional restorations

Fig.16
The provisional restorations protected the prepared teeth while serving as an esthetic and functional prototype, allowing validation of the treatment plan before fabrication of the definitive ceramic veneers.

Second shade evaluation

Fig.17
A second shade evaluation was performed during the provisional phase to verify the selected tooth value before definitive restoration fabrication.

Color measurement

Fig.18
OptiShade™ (Smile Line; St-Imier, Switzerland) was used to obtain an objective color measurement, reducing subjectivity during shade selection and facilitating communication with the dental technician.

Provisional

Fig.19
Protemp™ 4 provisional restorations (Solventum, St. Paul, MN, USA) maintained patient comfort, protected the preparations and preserved soft tissue stability while the definitive ceramic veneers were being fabricated.

Resin cement

Fig.20
RelyX™ Universal Resin Cement (Solventum, St. Paul, MN, USA) was selected to simplify the adhesive cementation protocol. In combination with Scotchbond™ Universal Plus Adhesive (Solventum, St. Paul, MN, USA), no separate silane application was required for the ceramic veneers.

Final situation

Fig.21
Postoperative smile showing harmonious integration of the ceramic veneers with the surrounding dentition and soft tissues.

Postoperative intraoral view

Fig.22
Postoperative intraoral view in maximum intercuspation demonstrating harmonious esthetic integration of the definitive ceramic veneers.

Slightly open intraoral view

Fig.23
Slightly open intraoral view allowing evaluation of the incisal edge position, tooth proportions and the seamless integration of the definitive ceramic veneers.

A postoperative digital intraoral scan

Fig.24
A postoperative digital intraoral scan was obtained to objectively evaluate the integration, morphology and marginal adaptation of the definitive ceramic restorations.

Final intraoral result

Fig.25
Radiographic evaluation was performed to verify complete seating of the restorations, marginal adaptation and the absence of residual excess cement.

Radiographic evaluation

Fig.26
Final intraoral result demonstrating seamless integration of the definitive ceramic veneers with the natural dentition and surrounding soft tissues.

Conclusions

Adhesively bonded ceramic veneers remain one of the most conservative and predictable treatment options for restoring anterior esthetics when supported by meticulous treatment planning, objective shade selection, and a well-structured adhesive protocol. The integration of digital workflows with simplified bonding procedures enhances clinical efficiency while maintaining excellent esthetic integration and long-term prognosis. Ultimately, success relies not only on the restorative materials but also on strict adherence to evidence-based clinical protocols, allowing clinicians to achieve highly predictable and reproducible outcomes.

Bibliography

  1. Fradeani M, Barducci G. Esthetic Rehabilitation in Fixed Prosthodontics. Volume 2: Prosthetic Treatment. Quintessence Publishing; 2008.
  2. Veneziani M. Adhesive restorations in the anterior dentition: biomimetic principles and minimally invasive preparations. International Journal of Esthetic Dentistry. 2017.
  3. Magne P, Belser UC. Bonded Porcelain Restorations in the Anterior Dentition: A Biomimetic Approach. Quintessence Publishing; 2002.
  4. Magne P. Immediate dentin sealing: a fundamental procedure for indirect bonded restorations. Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry. 2005;17:144–154.
  5. Van Meerbeek B, De Munck J, Yoshida Y, et al. Buonocore Memorial Lecture. Adhesion to enamel and dentin: current status and future challenges. Operative Dentistry. 2003;28:215–235.
  6. Breschi L, Mazzoni A, Ruggeri A Jr, et al. Dental adhesion review: aging and stability of the bonded interface. Dental Materials. 2008;24:90–101.
  7. Ferrari M, Vichi A, Grandini S. Efficacy of different adhesive techniques on indirect ceramic restorations. American Journal of Dentistry. 2001.

RELATED CASES

Class V Restorations cervical area restoration

Easy Matches in Class V Restorations

This clinical case describes the restoration of class V lesions using a simplified adhesive and restorative workflow with Filtek Easy Match composite
cavity with crack

Molar Daily Challenge