The prep dilemma: how to approach noninvasive, extended, classical veneers and crowns

Clinicians and researchers have long sought conservative treatment approaches to restore anterior teeth with long-lasting and esthetic materials. This endeavor led to the development of ceramic systems that wed aesthetics with function. Accordingly, fabricating porcelain veneers without requiring tooth preparation became possible, thus reinforcing the concept that the noninvasive porcelain laminate veneers are versatile and conservative allies of the aesthetic dentistry. However, even though noninvasive veneers can serve as an alternative to classic and extended veneers or even to full crown preparations, they are not the best choice for all clinical situations. The main advantages of adhesive dentistry may be completely misconceived when bonding porcelain veneers while ignoring the basic fundamentals that have made these restorations successful for nearly three decades. Therefore it is paramount that the clinician know how to indicate all porcelain restorations inasmuch as their longevity is highly dependent on patient, remaining tooth tissue, and ceramic related factors. Therefore, choosing the most adequate restorative approach when restoring the anterior dentition is crucial to achieving a conservative, long-lasting and yet esthetic treatment. My lecture addresses key evidencebased considerations regarding the rehabilitation of the anterior dentition using porcelain crowns, noninvasive, traditional and extended veneers.

Author(s): Júnio Silva

Abstract | PDF

Share This Article