Biomimetic dentistry uses a conservative approach in addressing dental problems. It uses non-invasive techniques, and its results are usually more durable compared to traditional dental restorations. The approach is based on mimicking nature and restoring teeth without destroying the tooth structure. With biomimetic dental restoration, you won’t need dental crowns, extraction, or any root canal treatment.
Advantages of the Biomimetic Approach
- Cheaper in the long term – Biomimetic procedure costs more than traditional restoration procedures, but it saves you a lot in the long term due to the durability of biomimetic solutions. In addition, since the biomimetic approach uses conservative methods, the procedures do not lead to tooth loss hence preventing more expenses in the long term.
- Pleasant experience – Unlike traditional restoration that involves drilling and cutting, biomimetic procedures are less invasive and painless.
- Effective and long lasting – Biomimetic solutions are very effective for treating weak, damaged, and decayed teeth. They strengthen and seal the teeth from bacteria invasion and decay, and allow them to function like natural teeth. The solutions are also very durable.
Concepts of Biomimetic Dentistry
They are:
- Pathology removal
- Saving as much tooth structure as possible
- Dental pulps conservation
- Elimination or repairs of cracks
- Delaying the treatment cycle
- Strengthening of tooth structure
The C-factor
C-factor is the proportion of bonded surfaces to the un-bonded in a tooth preparation. Biomimetic dentistry aims to minimize C-factor via certain protocols for diagnosing and treating. This prevents contamination of bacteria while preparing the cavity and increases the strength of the bonds, thereby minimizing stresses in the restorations and increasing their durability.
Below are the treatment protocols that help minimize C-factor in dental restorations:
- Delaying curing protocols – This leads to less marginal breakdown and increases the life of biomimetic restorations.
- Incremental fill of composite – Layering reduces stresses in the composite. On the contrary, bulk fill can lead to voids in certain areas in the composite resin, and light curing may be unable to properly reach deep preparations. Therefore, incremental fill is far much better compared to bulk fill.
- Elevating proximal boxes – Elevating proximal margins also reduces marginal breakdown hence boosting the durability of biomimetic restorations.
- Reduction of stresses in the composite – The use of Ribbond fiber can help to limit stresses, and research shows that it also enhances the longevity of restorations. The fiber is also great at bridging cracks by creating a reinforcement effect.
Conclusion
Biomimetic restorations can address any tooth problem, whether it’s cracks, gaps, infection or decay. Unlike the more aggressive traditional restoration methods, biomimetic techniques and materials are more effective and the results last longer.
Biomimetic dentistry is against the extensive removal of enamel when repairing teeth. It offers a less invasive approach which is also economically beneficial to both the patient and the dentist. Fully qualified biomimetic dentists like Dr. Trevelin can provide higher-quality dental care, which is also less expensive for the patient. In addition, if the restoration fails, it cannot result in tooth loss like is the case in traditional restorations. Therefore, with these biomimetic techniques, dentists can deliver more effective treatments, and after the experience, patients will most definitely refer their friends.
For a free biomimetic dental consulation, call Dr. Trevelin at 858-679-8918.