Approximal and Cervical Cavities

Question 1

How can approximal caries be diagnosed?

Answer 1

• visual inspection
• transillumination
• bitewing radiographs

Question 2

How should a class II cavity be prepared for amalgam?

Answer 2

1. Outline form: gain access to caries occlusally
2. Remove caries: must clear contact so matrix band will fit, and prevent secondary caries, tidy margins, remove unsupported enamel (amalgam not adhesive)
3. Ensure resistance and retention forms are included
4. Line as necessary
5. Place matrix band and restore

Question 3

If caries is minimal, how would you create retention in a class II cavity?

Answer 3

• use slots or grooves in wall of preparation
• more conservative of tooth tissue

Question 4

What is the purpose of a matrix band?

Answer 4

• to retain material in cavity during restoration placement
• to restore contact with adjacent tooth

Question 5

What does cervical caries indicate?

Answer 5

• high caries risk
• prevention should play a major part before any restorative work begins

Question 6

What problems are associated with the clinical technique of managing cervical caries?

Answer 6

• access e.g. buccal surface of upper molars, lingual surface of lower molars
• moisture control in close proximity to gingival tissues (saliva/GCF)
• contouring restoration to tooth surface can be difficult to achieve

Question 7

Give an overview of root caries?

Answer 7

• common with ageing population
• starts on root surface after recession
• spreads rapidly - no enamel
• can spread around entire circumference of root
• incidence of root caries is increasing as older population keeping their teeth for longer

Question 8

What are some risk factors for root caries?

Answer 8

• xerostomia
• frequent carbohydrate/NMES (non-milk extrinsic sugars) consumption
• removeable prostheses
• poor oral hygiene
• previous caries experience
• increased level of strep mutans and lactobacilli counts