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Aesthetic restoration of posterior teeth using different occlusal matrix techniques

British Dental Journal volume 231, pages 88–92 (2021)Cite this article

Abstract

The occlusal matrix technique appears as an alternative to the conventional restorative technique. The aim of this study is to present treatment options for the decayed occlusal surface of posterior teeth by means of an occlusal matrix made with different materials, for an accurate reproduction of the tooth surface. This paper presents five clinical cases using five different materials, such as Bite-Perf, flowable composite, self-curing acrylic resin, silicone and thermoforming foil. Before light-curing, the last layer of composite resin, the matrix, is repositioned and firmly pressed so the replication of the original occlusal anatomy can be achieved. When using an occlusal matrix, minimal or no finishing and polishing procedures are needed and the offered aesthetics are clearly an advantage. Moreover, this technique makes up for the additional chairside work time. The occlusal matrix technique is demonstrated to be effective for direct composite resin restorations in posterior teeth, allowing a reliable and predictable reproduction of the occlusal anatomy and clinical adjustment. For this purpose, a clear material is preferable since it allows light transmission.

Key points

  • Discusses advantages and disadvantages of different materials to make the occlusal matrix.

  • Emphasises the importance of a smooth surface when restoring teeth.

  • Compares the conventional restoration technique with the occlusal matrix technique.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Institute of Integrated Clinical Practice, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-075, Coimbra, Portugal

    Elsa Reis Carneiro, José Saraiva & Inês Amaro

  2. Institute of Integrated Clinical Practice, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal; Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Area of Environment, Genetics and Oncobiology (CIMAGO), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; CNC.IBILI Consortium, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal

    Anabela Paula, Ana Coelho & Eunice Carrilho

  3. Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Area of Environment, Genetics and Oncobiology (CIMAGO), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; CNC.IBILI Consortium, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Institute of Experimental Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal

    Carlos Miguel Marto

  4. Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Area of Environment, Genetics and Oncobiology (CIMAGO), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; CNC.IBILI Consortium, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Institute of Endodontics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-075, Coimbra, Portugal

    Manuel Marques Ferreira

Authors
  1. Elsa Reis Carneiro
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  2. Anabela Paula
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  3. José Saraiva
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  4. Ana Coelho
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  5. Inês Amaro
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  6. Carlos Miguel Marto
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  7. Manuel Marques Ferreira
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  8. Eunice Carrilho
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Ana Coelho.

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The authors do not have any financial interest in the companies whose materials are included in this article.

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Cite this article

Carneiro, E., Paula, A., Saraiva, J. et al. Aesthetic restoration of posterior teeth using different occlusal matrix techniques. Br Dent J 231, 88–92 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41415-021-3225-3

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