The chamfer finish line: preclinical student performance using different bur designs.

The primary purposes of this investigation were to evaluate sophomore dental student performance in the production of a chamfer finish line using two diamond bur types-a round-ended bur and a torpedo-shaped bur-and to gain student feedback about their preferences for bur type. Fifty students took part in the study, each of whom prepared the buccal surfaces of two mandibular molar typodont teeth, producing chamfer finish lines. Students prepared both teeth in the same laboratory session and were randomly assigned to two groups that were required to prepare the first of the two molars with a specific bur type.

A clinician's guide to purchasing surgical loupes.

Magnification using loupes is expanding within dental professions. Loupes offer enhanced vision of fine detail and critical ergonomic advantages. To achieve the maximum benefit from loupes, the dental professional should consider key features at the time of purchase.

Microabrasion of cast metal margins--a warning.

Plastic test patterns were milled to simulate casting margins and were cast in a variety of dental alloys. The cast specimens were exposed to horizontal and vertical streams of low-pressure microabrasion with 50 microm aluminum oxide particles. Post-exposure measurements show all specimens were affected by microabrasion.

Evaluation of mechanical and thermal properties of commonly used denture base resins.

Purpose: The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate and compare the mechanical and thermal properties of 6 commonly used polymethyl methacrylate denture base resins.

Materials And Methods: Sorption, solubility, color stability, adaptation, flexural stiffness, and hardness were assessed to determine compliance with ADA Specification No. 12.

Removal of a metal-ceramic fixed partial denture with a loose retainer.

In clinical practice, it is necessary to remove a ceramic-veneered fixed partial denture when an abutment becomes loose. When possible, the fixed partial denture is removed in a single piece, allowing recementation when appropriate. A 1-piece removal is challenging, often putting the veneer and abutment teeth at risk for damage.