To achieve a natural-looking restoration that mimics the tooth structure, it is not only a good composite material and good technique that is needed. A complete composite restoration also requires skilful finishing and polishing using appropriate products. A smooth surface and high gloss restoration is desirable, not only for aesthetic reasons, but also for oral health and the restored dentition’s long-term integrity.
DR Nadeem Younis, former president of the British Academy of Aesthetic Dentistry (BAAD), has detailed his method for finishing and polishing direct composite restorations.
Indistinguishable from natural tooth enamel
From an aesthetic point of view, a high gloss finish will help make the restoration indistinguishable from enamel because the colour of the reflected light is more predominant than the colour of the composite resin material.
On the other hand, a composite restoration with a reduced glossy finish will be more obvious to the human eye, even if the shade match to the surrounding natural tooth is accurate (O’Brien et al, 1984).
There are many factors that can affect the final polish obtained with composite resin restorations. Filler particle size, resin matrix composition, the polishing system used, wet or dry polishing conditions, as well as the applied force and the time taken, can influence the final gloss achieved.
Finishing and polishing protocol for high gloss results
The finishing and polishing protocol is a multistep process that, when followed methodologically using appropriate instruments and polishing systems, can create restorations with a high gloss and lasting lustre, with a range of composite resin materials.
The smooth surface produced by aluminium oxide-containing discs and silicone points is thought to be related to their ability to cut the filler particles and resin matrix equally (Özgünaltay, Yazici and Görücü, 2003). Venus Supra silicone points are highly effective at removing or polishing composites. However, removing natural tooth structure is more challenging. It is advisable to use the polishing systems with a water spray to keep the heat generation to a minimum.
The Venus Supra polishing points are latex free and made from synthetic rubber impregnated with microfine diamond powder and colour pigments. Available in five different shapes for all restoration surfaces, the pre-polisher set (pink) is used first, followed by the high gloss set (grey). It is recommended to use each set with a water spray, ideally at 7,500rpm but no more than 10,000rpm.
To achieve a high-quality gloss, any superfine disc is employed in the final stage of the protocol. Rapid motions need to be applied over the labial and approximal surfaces to minimise heat generation.
Where can I buy the Venus Supra polishing system?
The entire Venus Supra polishing system from Kulzer is available to buy at Kent Express Dental Supplies.
All online orders come with free next working day delivery as standard.
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