A review of polymerization shrinkage stress: current techniques for posterior direct resin restorations.

In general excellent results cannot be guaranteed when using resin-based composites for posterior restorations. This is due to polymerization shrinkage which can still be regarded as the primary negative characteristic of composite resins. A review of available literature regarding the polymerization process, its flaws, and suggested strategies to avoid shrinkage stress was conducted.

Whitening effect by stain inhibition from a chewing gum with sodium hexametaphosphate in a controlled twelve-week single-blind trial.

Objective: A twelve-week clinical study was conducted to assess the effect of a chewing gum containing sodium hexametaphosphate (4%) on the inhibition of stain formation.

Methodology: Fifty-four subjects were entered and completed all aspects of the study. Twenty-seven of the subjects were smokers, and the other half did not smoke.

Clinical evaluation of the use of fiber posts and direct resin restorations for endodontically treated teeth.

Purpose: Restoration of root-treated teeth is routinely performed in clinical practice with a choice of therapeutic options, considering many factors to provide optimal mechanical properties, esthetics, and longevity. The aim of the present work was to present a preliminary clinical report on the use of fiber posts and direct resin composites for restoring root-treated teeth.

Materials And Methods: Thirty-eight anterior and 62 posterior endodontically treated teeth were selected from 3 private prosthodontic offices.

Restorative alternatives for the treatment of an impacted canine: surgical and prosthetic considerations.

Impaction occurs more frequently with maxillary canines than with any other tooth except maxillary third molars. For functional and aesthetic purposes, impaction must be treated in a manner that facilitates recreation of the anatomical structures in the canine region. The general treatment of choice is surgical and orthodontic restoration of the impacted canine.