Class V Composite Tooth Preparations

Class V Composite Tooth Preparations

• Class V restorations occur in the gingival third of the facial and lingual surfaces of all teeth, excluding caries originating from the occlusal surface.

• Treatment options for Class V caries include prevention and reversal methods, glass ionomer restoration, conservative composite restoration, conventional composite restoration, and amalgam restoration.

• Initial clinical procedures before cutting a tooth are anesthesia, shade selection, and isolation. Checking occlusal relationships is not included in Class V procedures.

• Steps for Class V preparation involve:

  • Convenience form creation
  • Defect removal
  • Finishing enamel margins
  • Conditioning the cavity

• An ideal Class V restoration does not exist in clinical settings, although an ideal preparation is achievable in simulation clinics.

• Box form for Class V restoration is used only in dentiform due to a higher chance of shrinkage, which can create sharp angles.

• A bevel can be placed on enamel for clinical Class V restorations, starting at the dentin-enamel junction (DEJ).

• Enamel bevels are not used for Class V amalgam restorations; they are exclusive to composite restorations.

• Benefits of an enamel bevel include improved aesthetics and a reduction in microleakage.

• For shade selection in Class V restorations, consider the opacity differences between enamel and dentin. A more opaque shade should be used for dentin, while a less opaque shade is suitable for enamel.

• The sandwich technique involves using two different materials: glass ionomer bonds to the axial wall, and resin composite bonds to the surface of the glass ionomer.

• Burs suitable for Class V restoration include round No. 1 or No. 2, and pearl No. 329 or 330.