Being a Restorative Matchmaker

Although some materials work better with certain cements or adhesives, objectively, it would be difficult to call out any particular combination as being "the perfect match." However, in a more subjective, case-by-case appraisal, there are certainly pairings that can represent a perfect match in specific restorative scenarios. A material needs to be able to meet the functional and esthetic requirements of the restoration's location in the mouth, and the selection of a cement or adhesive needs to meet the requirements of the chosen material, the retentiveness of the preparation, and the substrates involved. Furthermore, the success of any pairing will be dependent upon the clinician's ability to correctly employ the appropriate restorative protocol, and restorative protocols have become significantly more variable and manufacturer specific as the available materials have become more nuanced. Our March cover story explores how this relationship between material, cement, and protocol must be harmonized to meet each patient's individual needs and discusses the elements that are essential to achieving predictable success.

Exemplifying these principles, this month's inside restorative article presents a case in which a patient's smile goals were met with minimal preparation veneers. The author's choice of pressed lithium disilicate with a bonding protocol permitted restorations as thin as 0.3 mm, facilitating a conservative approach that delivered exceptional esthetics with high strength. Other articles in this issue include one that explores the use of regenerative periodontal therapy to treat localized aggressive periodontitis and a continuing education offering that addresses the quality control and monitoring of vaccines and discusses the role of oral healthcare providers in improving vaccination rates.