Tooth restoration

Tooth restoration (Latin: restauratio — restoration) is a specialized biocompatible material used for filling cavities in the tooth resulting from caries treatment or injury. The main goal of tooth restoration is to restore the anatomical form and function, and seal the dental tissues.

Classification of restorations:

• Direct restorations: made directly in the oral cavity;
• Indirect restorations (veneers, inlays, onlays, crowns, bridges): manufactured in a dental laboratory and then placed in the oral cavity.

Etiology and Pathophysiology

Modern filling materials (photocurable composites) create a bond with dental tissues (known as adhesion) by forming a hybrid layer using an adhesive system. Glass ionomer cements create a chemical bond with dental tissues. This allows not only for defect closure but also the restoration of the mechanical strength of the tooth crown. A properly placed restoration completely isolates dentin from external environmental exposure, preventing bacterial infiltration into the tooth and restoring the form and function of one or more teeth.

Clinical significance

The quality of the restoration is determined by its fit to the edges of the defect in the tooth’s hard tissues. Secondary caries develop in the presence of micro-gaps (loss of impermeability). The longevity of the restoration depends on the amount of remaining tooth tissue, adherence to the restoration protocol by the dentist, the quality of materials used, and the patient’s oral hygiene compliance.