Faculty Bibliography

The use of ceramic veneers to restore crowded teeth in the maxilla has been widely discussed in the literature. However, the use of this technique in the mandible has received little attention. Therefore, this case report describes the treatment of crowded mandibular anterior teeth using ceramic veneers. The primary treatment challenge in this region is the reduced tooth structure available for rehabilitation. Proper communication between the clinician and dental technician is required to achieve clinical success. This article presents a straightforward treatment plan and restorative technique that includes both the clinical and laboratory sequences necessary for predictable and stable postoperative outcomes.

Clinical success of ceramic laminate veneers depends on material selection, bonding procedures, controlled laboratory steps, and enamel preservation. Enamel preservation is the most critical because excessive tooth preparation can expose dentin reducing bond strength, which is a factor that can cause a decrease in long-term clinical success. The proposed technique based on carefully treatment planning developed between clinician and dental technician helps to maximize enamel preservation, which is an important element for clinical success.

Enamel microabrasion may be indicated for certain clinical situations, since it is a proven method for removing superficial intrinsic enamel discoloration defects such as fluorosis-like stains; in addition, it is safe, conservative, and easy to perform. However, this method removes enamel structure, causing teeth to become yellowish. This yellowing can be treated with enamel microabrasion and bleaching. This article describes and documents how these two methods were utilized to correct tooth color for a young patient.

All-ceramic materials have become an excellent option for both anterior and posterior fixed partial dentures (FPDs) due to advances in esthetic and mechanical properties. This clinical report describes the use of an all-ceramic inlay-retained three-unit FPD for replacement of a maxillary second premolar. Prosthetic restorative materials consisted of a CAD-CAM processed presintered yttrium stabilized zirconium oxide (Y-TZP) framework and a fluoroapatite veneering ceramic. The minimally invasive preparation technique and advantages of this highly esthetic and resistant treatment option are discussed.