Redefining the principles of restorative dentistry

An original set of principles for restorative dentistry was laid down by GV Black 100 years ago; it is only in recent years that they have been challenged to any extent.
The advent of long-term adhesion in the oral cavity, as well as a more sophisticated understanding of the influence of fluoride in the demineralisation - remineralisation cycle of the cariously involved tooth, have made it possible to redefine the real meaning of 'conservative' dentistry.
We have moved beyond the surgical approach to the elimination of the caries lesion, which required the removal of varying quantities of sound tooth structure to make room for the restoration.
It is now possible to heal a caries lesion, at least in its early stages; as the cavity enlarges to the point where restoration is required, there will often be reasonable quantities of demineralised tooth structure that can be retained and remineralised.

Such healing processes were not available to GV Black because fluoride and adhesion were not understood. The ultimate aim now must be preservation of remaining tooth structure which, of course, will lead to maintenance of physical properties as well as aesthetics.

“MATERIALS USED FOR THIS WEBSITE”

The contents of this website are derived primarily from the text book entitled –

“Preservation and Restoration of Tooth Structure” Mount GJ, Hume WR, 2nd Edition, Knowledge Books and Software, Brisbane, Australia 2005. For information or purchase contact  enquiries@kbs.com.au

The contents of the "Info Boxes" have been copied directly from the book and further information can be obtained from, and the material expanded by, reference to it. In some cases there are page references included. A number of current direct references to the literature are included with the intention of making it easier for the reader to confirm the veracity of the information. This is a fast developing change in the philosophy of operative dentistry and the reader should be prepared to keep up to date with current thinking by reference to future publications in reliable journals.

The section on “Caries Abseil” is derived directly from undergraduate teaching material prepared by Prof Brian Monteith. The intention is to facilitate early recognition of the caries lesion and its progress through tooth structure in a simple pictorial manner. It will be of greatest value to the undergraduate or young practitioner or even for the education of a patient to explain what is likely to occur in their own oral environment. It is interactive and of considerable value in enhancing the website overall.