Unit 1334: Comprehensive Operative Dentistry

1. Dental Caries

1.1 Etiology

• Definition of dental caries
• Role of bacterial biofilm (Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacilli)
• Demineralization and remineralization processes

1.2 Risk Factors

• Dietary sugars and frequency
• Oral hygiene practices
• Saliva flow and composition
• Socioeconomic and behavioral factors

1.3 Progression

• Stages of carious lesion development
• Clinical and radiographic detection

1.4 Treatment Options

• Preventive approaches (fluoride, sealants)
• Restorative treatments
• Minimally invasive dentistry

1.5 Prevention and Early Detection

• Importance of regular dental check-ups
• Diagnostic tools (visual, tactile, radiographic, laser fluorescence)

2. Tooth Preparation Techniques

2.1 Principles of Cavity Preparation

• Outline form
• Resistance and retention forms
• Convenience form
• Preservation of tooth structure

2.2 Preparation for Amalgam Restorations

• Design considerations
• Mechanical retention

2.3 Preparation for Composite Resin Restorations

• Conservative preparation
• Adhesive considerations

2.4 Preparation for Ceramic Restorations

• Marginal designs
• Tooth reduction requirements

3. Dental Restorative Materials

3.1 Amalgam

• Composition and properties
• Indications and contraindications
• Handling and clinical application

3.2 Composite Resins

• Types and classifications
• Polymerization
• Indications and contraindications

3.3 Glass Ionomer Cements

• Chemical properties
• Fluoride release
• Uses in dentistry

3.4 Ceramics

• Types (feldspathic, leucite-reinforced, lithium disilicate)
• Esthetic and mechanical properties
• Clinical applications

4. Bonding Agents in Operative Dentistry

4.1 Principles and Mechanisms

• Adhesion and micromechanical retention
• Enamel and dentin bonding

4.2 Types of Bonding Systems

• Total-etch
• Self-etch
• Universal adhesives

4.3 Application Techniques

• Surface preparation
• Application steps
• Curing methods

4.4 Importance in Restoration Success

• Longevity
• Marginal seal
• Sensitivity prevention

5. Esthetic Dentistry

5.1 Principles

• Color science and shade matching
• Tooth morphology

5.2 Shade Selection

• Shade guides
• Lighting considerations

5.3 Contouring and Finishing Techniques

• Instrumentation
• Polishing methods
• Surface texture replication

6. Rubber Dam Isolation

6.1 Importance in Operative Dentistry

• Moisture control
• Infection control
• Patient safety

6.2 Placement Techniques

• Equipment and clamps
• Step-by-step application

6.3 Advantages

• Improved visibility
• Enhanced bonding

6.4 Potential Complications

• Patient discomfort
• Tissue trauma

7. Posterior Composite Restorations

7.1 Techniques

• Cavity design considerations
• Matrix systems

7.2 Layering Methods

• Incremental placement
• Avoiding polymerization shrinkage

7.3 Polymerization Techniques

• Light curing units
• Exposure times

7.4 Clinical Considerations

• Occlusion
• Finishing and polishing

8. Dental Cements and Liners

8.1 Types of Cements

• Zinc phosphate
• Polycarboxylate
• Resin-modified glass ionomer

8.2 Properties

• Retention
• Sealing capability
• Biocompatibility

8.3 Clinical Applications

• Luting agents
• Base and liner roles

9. Pulp Protection and Pulpotomy

9.1 Pulp Protection Techniques

• Use of liners and bases
• Thermal insulation

9.2 Indications for Pulpotomy

• Vital pulp therapy
• Criteria for selection

9.3 Materials and Procedures

• Calcium hydroxide
• Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA)

10. Endodontic Considerations in Operative Dentistry

10.1 Relationship Between Operative Dentistry and Endodontics

• Pulp health assessment
• Prevention of pulp injury

10.2 Root Canal Treatment Implications

• Access cavity preparation
• Restoration post-endodontic therapy

10.3 Post-Endodontic Restoration

• Materials selection
• Techniques to ensure longevity