Técnicas aplicadas en dientes con sustrato desfavorables previo a una restauración cerámica : estudio de prevalencia.

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to identify the most commonly used dental restoration techniques among dentistry students at the Catholic University of Santiago de Guayaquil for treating teeth with discolorations or alterations (unfavorable substrates) during period A-2024. Introduction: Tooth color is a crucial aesthetic factor, and alterations can necessitate specialized treatments. The study acknowledges the complexity of achieving aesthetic harmony between natural teeth and restorative materials. Materials and Methods: Fifty cases of patients with discolored teeth were analyzed. Data on materials used, teeth treated, and initial and final colors were recorded using specific colorimeters. Results: The results showed a variability in restoration techniques based on the degree of tooth discoloration. For example, in teeth with moderate discolorations (ND4 and ND5), a combination of special cements and indirect materials (veneers or crowns) was used. In cases with more severe discolorations (ND6 and ND8), both direct (composite resins) and indirect materials were combined. For the most intense discolorations (ND9), indirect restorations were predominant. However, a significant finding was the identification of a considerable number of cases without any restoration, suggesting a possible lack of knowledge or experience among students. Conclusion: The choice of dental restoration technique depends directly on the degree of tooth discoloration. Indirect materials are more common in cases with severe discolorations. Nevertheless, the study revealed a need to improve students' training in selecting appropriate restoration techniques based on substrate color, as this directly influences the aesthetic success of the treatment.