Episode 49 | Why Freehand Direct Composites will Thrive in the Digital World
Sep 19, 2023
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Explore the advantages of freehand direct composites in the digital world of dentistry. Learn about the current state and future of composite materials in dentistry, including the popularity of translucine zirconia. Discuss the benefits of online education for dentists and upcoming collaborations. Discover dental online training resources and how to connect with Dr. Dennis Hartlieb and the DOT Team.
Understanding contour and polish are crucial for successful freehand direct composites.
Freehand direct composites offer immediate results and the option for modifications, unlike porcelain restorations.
Composite restorations provide a cost-effective alternative to porcelain, making them more accessible to a wider range of patients.
Deep dives
Contours and polish are key in freehand direct composites
The main factors in achieving successful freehand direct composites are understanding contour and polish. Contours are crucial for creating natural-looking restorations, and learning the skill of contouring is essential. Likewise, achieving a beautiful polish and surface texture is vital for the final aesthetics of the restoration. These two factors, along with appropriate block-out techniques, can significantly impact the success of freehand direct composite restorations.
Immediate results and reversibility are advantages of composite restorations
One of the advantages of freehand direct composites is the immediate results it offers. Unlike other restorative materials like porcelain, composite can be placed and completed in a single visit, saving time for both the dentist and the patient. In addition, composite restorations are more reversible compared to porcelain, allowing for modifications and adjustments if the patient is not completely satisfied. Dentists can offer patients immediate gratification and the option to change or adjust the restoration if needed.
Cost-effectiveness and patient satisfaction of composite materials
Composite restorations can be a cost-effective alternative to porcelain restorations. Dentists can charge their regular fees for composite restorations, eliminating the additional lab fee associated with porcelain. This allows for more affordable options for patients, making the procedures accessible to a wider range of patients. Moreover, composite restorations can provide high patient satisfaction, as they offer immediate results and the ability to make adjustments based on the patient's preferences.
The importance of developing hand skills alongside digital techniques
While digital workflows have improved dentistry, it is crucial for dentists to develop and maintain their hand skills. Even with advanced digital techniques, there are situations where unexpected factors can affect the outcome, such as variations in tooth anatomy or patient-related factors. Dentists should be able to rely on their hand skills to make necessary adjustments and achieve optimal results. Developing hand skills, including contouring, polishing, and block-out techniques, allows dentists to excel in their craft and deliver high-quality restorations.
Dental Online Training as a resource for improving freehand direct composites
Dental Online Training (DOT) offers a valuable platform for dentists looking to enhance their skills in freehand direct composites. The platform provides on-demand courses and live virtual workshops, allowing dentists to learn at their own pace and from the comfort of their own space. DOT's comprehensive educational resources, including kits, prerecorded classes, study clubs, and sharecasts, provide dentists with the opportunity to improve their techniques and gain confidence in performing freehand direct composites.
In this Sharecast, we are sharing an episode from ACT Dental - The Best Practices Show Podcast hosted by Kirk Behrendt!
In this episode, Kirk interviews Dr. Dennis Hartlieb about his dental career and experiences and they discuss Freehand Direct Composites in the Digital Age.
Check out more from The Best Practices Show Podcasthere!
For a video version of the interview, highlights, and more, check out our blog post.
Connect with Dr. Dennis Hartlieb and the DOT Team!
