Restorative dentistry

Question 1

Definition of restorative dentistry

Answer 1

Treatment aims to restore oral structures with regard to

• functional
• psychological (e.g. px wakes up without front tooth)
• aesthetic needs of the patient

Question 2

Give key aspects of ‘restore’

Answer 2

Diagnosis
Developing px-centred treatment plan
Prevention of recurrence (fluoride & diet for drill/ fill, periodontal prevention for crowns & bridges)
Referral or seek advice
Providing operative treatment
Reviewing success of treatment
Maintenance of any work done

Question 3

Specialties in restorative dentistry

Answer 3

Endodontics (root fill)
Periodontics (scaling, RSD, surgery)
Prosthodontics (placing restorayions, crowns, bridges, denture work)
Implantology

Question 4

Key principles of endodontics

Answer 4

Keep bacteria out of dental pulp (control)
Remove them if they penetrate
Keep them out after any treatment
(control caries –> isolate during prep –> well adapted restorations –> thorough exam –> what does px want)

Question 5

What is periodontics?

Answer 5

Maintenance of a healthy periodontium

• systemic diseases
• prevention
• active treatment

Question 6

What is chronic periodontitis?

Answer 6

Imbalance of host response and bacterial infection

Question 7

Give examples of treatment of periodontitis

Answer 7

Teepee brushes, cavitron, antibiotics

Question 8

What is main medicolegal claim in dentistry?

Answer 8

Periodontal neglect

e.g. other dentist says your root-fill is suboptimal. Keep good records!

Question 9

What is prosthodontics?

Answer 9

Replacement of lost tooth tissue

• Fixed: intra-(MO, DO) and extracoronal (crowns, veneers) restoration
• Removable: dentures

Question 10

What is important for success in prosthodontics?

Answer 10

To combine px’s needs and wishes, and your skill and knowledge