COMPOSITE TECHNIQUE SMILE DESIGN COMPANIES/MATERIALS MATERIAL SCIENCE
SURFACE DIMPLES
A developmental defect in the center of a lateral incisor is shaped like a dimple. Lateral to the dimple are small defects within an overall concave area. Composite that replicates lost enamel, usually an A2 shade, is used. If a proper translucent composite is used, one layer of material restores this tooth.
Alternatively, matching existing tooth structure with a shade guide is done. Proper translucency and shade is required. Critical to success is texturing the composite surface to create small areas of light reflection and refraction minimizing chances of underlying tooth structure showing through.
Highly translucent composite shows through underlying tooth structure. Consider if composite were clear glass, tooth structure would show through as is. Composite translucency and thickness determines its ability to block out light reflection from underneath.
Tooth structure was prepared with a diamond bur to produce a rough, clean surface for improved bond strength. Enamel bonding is completed. Composite is placed, cured, contoured, textured and polished.