Selection of luting agents, part 1.

The clinical success of indirect restorations is dependent on multiple factors that include preparation design, mechanical forces, restorative material selection, oral hygiene, and selection of a proper luting agent. The selection of the luting agent is dependent on the specific clinical situation, the type of restoration utilized and the physical, biologic, and handling properties of the luting agent. Although it is important to choose the best luting agent for each clinical situation, far greater variations in physical properties result from improper manipulation of a given luting agent than exist between different types of cements.

To extract or not to extract? Factors that affect individual tooth prognosis.

A dentist evaluates a natural tooth for its quality of health. Once this is accomplished, the clinician obtains an estimate of longevity and decides whether to extract or to treat and maintain the tooth. There often are questions and doubts involved in the decision-making process in regard to the prognosis of an individual tooth.

An interdisciplinary approach to treatment planning in implant dentistry.

The practice of implant dentistry requires an interdisciplinary approach that integrates the knowledge, skills, and experience of all the disciplines of dentistry into a comprehensive treatment plan. The team must examine the anticipated restorative site to determine the suitability of the existing hard and soft tissues for implant placement. Deficiencies in hard and soft tissue, which prevent ideal implant placement, must be recognized and addressed to ensure a more predictable esthetic outcome.

Use of a removable partial denture in the management of chronic screw loosening.

Lack of posterior support can result in adverse occlusal forces being placed on anterior teeth. These forces may cause fremitus, splaying of the anterior teeth, and even accelerated wear. When implant-supported restorations are used, a common indicator of overload is screw loosening.

An interdisciplinary approach to treatment planning in the esthetic zone.

The practice of prosthodontics requires a multidisciplinary approach that integrates the knowledge, skills, and experience of all the disciplines of dentistry into a comprehensive treatment plan. This article outlines a comprehensive interdisciplinary treatment philosophy designed for developing the foundation for optimal esthetics in fixed prosthodontics. Cases are presented to illustrate the utility of interdisciplinary treatment in which specialists are recruited to enhance and improve a patient's dental function and esthetics.