Tooth wear treated with direct composite restorations at an increased vertical dimension: results at 30 months

Severe tooth wear localized to the anterior maxillary or mandibular teeth with loss of interocclusal space is difficult to manage.

This study evaluated the outcome of composite restorations placed at an increased vertical dimension of occlusion in such patients.

Sixteen patients were restored with 104 restorations in 2 groups. In group A, Durafill composite and Scotchbond Multipurpose dentine adhesive system were used to place direct anterior restorations (N = 52). In group B, Herculite XRV composite and Optibond dentine bonding agent was used (N = 52). The restorations were placed at an increased vertical dimension of occlusion creating a posterior disclusion of 1 to 4 mm.

Clinical follow-up showed that the posterior occlusion remained satisfactorily restored after a mean duration of 4.6 months (range 1 to 11 months). Mean follow-up of 30 months has shown a combined success rate of 89.4% for both groups with 93 of the restorations remaining in service. Maintenance in group A was high with 33 failures, but low in group B with 6 failures. Patient satisfaction was reported as good.

Direct composite restorations may be a treatment option for localized anterior tooth wear.