Page 41 - Dental Practice August 2022

40-41-Melissa article-Q8:18-22-Lanka Mahesh.qxd 8/17/2022 6:34 PM Page 2

FIG 5 FIG 6 FIG 7 FIG 8

CONCLUSION
With numerous studies citing secondary caries as the most common
reason for re-treatment of existing restorations, proper technique
becomes critical for placement of even the most basic direct
composites. When the focus is to first control the hostile oral
environment, clinical efforts can then be centered on the appropri-
ate use of bonding systems, systematic placement of resin materials,
and highquality finishing and polishing protocols. These steps aim
to minimize and eliminate post-operative sensitivity, augment the
longevity of these restorations and improve positive patient
outcomes.

FIG 9

9. The shade modifier [SDI shade modification system] dark yellow About the AUTHOR
was utilized to make the A3 composite more chromatic to better
match the patient’s yellow dentin (Figure 6). Dr Melissa Johnson is a graduate of the Herman Ostrow
10. The final layer of composite was placed using SDI’s Luna A2 School of Dentistry at the University of Southern California.
composite material. Marginal adaptation was obtained with a She trainedand worked as a military dentist for four years-
composite brush and modeling liquid (Figure 7). before entering private practice. She currently practices in
11. Occlusion was adjusted with a fine diamond burand polishing Portland, Maine. Melissa has a passion for conservative
was completed with a three-point polishing system and polish- dentistry and biomimetics and loves to share this world
ing paste (Figure 8). through dental photography. She is a member of the
American Academy of General Dentistry and the Academy
12. Final radiograph taken to confirm proper fill (Figure 9). of Biomimetic Dentistry.

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Dental Practice // July-August 2022 // Vol 18 No 4 41