Single shade restorations may seem simplistic when facing the restoration of one or both central incisors. Yet, this approach holds many advantages in terms of shade matching, and in reducing the chance for error when approaching multiple restorations. Also the most skilled practitioners often resort to this approach because of its effectiveness in delivering a very satisfying result for many patients.
Fig.1
Initial situation of the 28 years old patient shows two old, chipped and stained composite restorations on both central incisors.
Fig.2
Initial smile.
Fig.3
Isolation with rubber dam is very important in order to provide a clean, clear and dry environment.
Fig.4
The old restorations were removed completely, together with all unsustained enamel prisms.
Fig.5
Etching of the tooth surface with 37% phosphoric acid.
Fig.6
A generous amount of bonding was applied.
Fig.7
And a silicone index was used to build the palatal shell.
Fig.8
After building the palatal shell and adding a little material in the proximal the outline of the restorations is complete.
Fig.9
The restoration is completed by applying a layer of composite and modeling by the CompoBrush (Smile Line,Powered by Styleitaliano) for better adaptation.
Fig.10
First central incisor is done. The same was done for the upper right central incisor.
Fig.11
Final situation at one-month recall.
Fig.12
Final occlusion after one-month.
Fig.13
Final smile of the satisfied patient.
Conclusions
Universal composite helps solve a wide range of restorative situations and provides many patients and clinicians with very satisfying results.
Bibliography
1. Manauta J. Single Shade Everyday. Styleitaliano. www.styleitaliano.org/single-shadeeveryday
2. Devoto W., Saracinelli M., Manauta J. Composite in everyday practice: how to choose
the right material and simplify application techniques in the anterior teeth. Eur J Esthet
Dent 2010; 5: 102-124.
3. Baratieri LN, Araujo Jr EM, Monteiro Jr S. Composite Restorations in Anterior Teeth:
Fundamentals and Possibilities. Quintessence Books
