Composite edge bonding – the reverse triangle technique

Composite has seen a strong renaissance in recent times with a large variety of materials appearing on the market packed with claimed improvements in handling strength and appearance. We do not need scientific data to appreciate that the latter claim is true. Appearance and the ability to blend composite to tooth structure certainly is better than materials of earlier generations. Much of this is down to the material properties, meaning that layering techniques can be simpler. Simplicity brings many benefits not just to the dentist but very much also to the patient. This is because many dentists in the past have not had the confidence to lengthen teeth with composite and instead have used porcelain.

Now the consequences of this are far reaching, because of the biological sacrifice required, the actual cost and, very importantly, the fact that many patients cannot afford it and, as a result, suffer further tooth substance loss (TSL) because there seems to be no simple solution and, as a result, many patients are simply left with their teeth wearing.