Composite restorations in anterior teeth: fundamentals and possibilities

  • L. N. Baratieri,
  • E. M. Aruajo &
  • S. Monteiro
UK: Quintessence price £109.00, pp 367 ISBN 8587425595 | ISBN: 8-587-42559-5

This is a high-quality, lavishly illustrated book with over 350 pages written by an international leader in the field of aesthetic dentistry and his Brazilian team. As its title suggests, the book covers the fundamentals and possibilities of composite restorations in anterior teeth and beautifully relates these to the attainment of optimal aesthetics. The numerous illustrations, on glossy pages with a black background, are superb in terms of clinical quality and photographic reproduction.

The book is divided into seven chapters. The first chapter provides a pertinent overview of aesthetic characteristics of anterior teeth and covers the various types of tooth-coloured restorations, with emphasis on direct composite restorations including shade selection, restorative procedures and protocols. It also contains two flowcharts outlining the clinical management of traumatised anterior teeth.

The second chapter presents meticulously illustrated step-by-step clinical techniques for the preparation and restoration of class III, IV and V cavities, reattachment of tooth fragments and diastema closure.

The third chapter deals with the physical properties of light-cured composite resins, with particular emphasis on different curing units and curing techniques. Although valid at the time of writing, it must be noted that the technology of composite materials and the techniques used to handle them are continuously changing in the ever-expanding field of adhesive dentistry.

Chapter four commences with an overview of non-metallic posts in association with composites in the restoration of fractured anterior teeth and continues with step-by-step techniques for their use, again supported by excellent illustrations and clinical photographs.

Chapter five covers the diagnosis and clinical management of the various non-carious lesions using composite resin, and also benefits from excellent illustrations and photographs.

Chapter six provides a succinct overview of the synergistic benefits of adhesive direct restorations and conservative preparation design, directing the reader to the advantages of minimally invasive dentistry.

The concluding chapter highlights the reliability and predictability of the techniques presented throughout the book, and stresses the difficulties in obtaining clinically excellent results with direct adhesive restorations in anterior teeth. It also (rightly) accentuates the need for extensive postgraduate training and clinical experience.

There is an extensive list of references at the end of the book.

My only criticism of this book is that it does not cover the repair of composite restorations. The repair of suboptimal direct composite resins is common practice nowadays and can also lead to aesthetically pleasing results.

In summary, this is an outstanding book supported by high-quality illustrations and appropriate text layout containing much sensible and practical advice. It would prove a valuable reference to all experienced dentists who have an interest in adhesive techniques in aesthetic dentistry.