Conservative dentistry
In dentistry, conservative dentistry focuses precisely on preserving a tooth that has undergone decay or a fracture, restoring its integrity. Other times, as mentioned in the section on dental aesthetics, conservative dentistry aims to restore a more pleasant smile by reconstructing the front teeth.
What is the purpose of conservative dentistry?
As the name suggests, the goal of conservative dentistry is to recover the tooth without resorting to prosthetics. In such cases, if the tooth is not too compromised, it may be sufficient to prepare the area by removing the decay and, in the same session, filling the “hole” with a light-curing resin.
Over the years, different filling materials have been used, but recently, their performance has reached impressive levels. Not too long ago, the preferred material for fillings was amalgam (the classic old “lead” filling). Amalgam remained popular for many years due to its great wear resistance and the ability to perform large reconstructions.
However, with the advent of adhesive techniques, it became possible to use materials that are easier to work with and, above all, much more aesthetically pleasing. It's called an adhesive technique because, once the tooth is prepared, a type of glue is applied that allows the composite material to bond perfectly.
As we learn from a young age, glue’s effectiveness is reduced by moisture, a constant condition in the oral cavity. This is exactly why, to carry out a proper and long-lasting filling, the tooth must be isolated from the rest of the mouth. And how is that done? By simply using a small sheet of latex and a ring placed around the tooth to keep the sheet in place.
This isolation method is called a rubber dam.
Do you have dental problems or would like to improve your smile?
Book a consultation now to evaluate your case!
What other benefits does the dam offer?
It allows work in a dry field, not only free from saliva but also from blood or other potential contaminants;
Lower bacterial contamination in the operating field;
Eliminates the risk of accidentally swallowing liquids or other instruments used by the dentist;
Greater comfort for the patient, who doesn’t have to keep their cheeks and tongue pulled aside for visibility;
Better results: it definitely increases the chances of performing accurate and long-lasting work;
The rubber dam creates not just a physical but also a psychological barrier between the patient and the tooth (or teeth) being treated. Sometimes, the patient even falls asleep!
For these and many other reasons, using the rubber dam is absolutely essential for us.
In a clinic like ours that deals with various specialties, cavities are certainly the most frequent condition we encounter every day.
Do you know what the most widespread disease in the world is?
That’s right, it’s tooth decay, and about 90% of the global population is affected by it.
Request Information or Book an Appointment
Our dental therapies
