Fundamentals of Tooth Preparation

Abstract

This chapter will emphasise the need to:Consider extra-coronal restorations that require minimal preparation (veneers, onlays and {\textthreequarters} crowns) instead of always prescribing crownsPlan your tooth preparation keeping in mind the space requirements and marginal configurations recommended for different restorations and materialsOptimise resistance and retention, particularly in tooth preparations for zirconia restorations and restorations cemented with conventional cementsChoose an appropriate preparation margin and marginal position to optimise gingival health and aestheticsAdopt a systematic approach for preparing teeth, evaluating the quality of the preparation and determining if adequate, but not excessive, tooth reduction has been achievedEnsure proper planning before tooth preparation and use a check list to develop an efficient work-flow