A combined direct dowel and indirect core technique

The dowel-and-core restoration is indicated when inadequate tooth structure remains to retain an extracoronal restoration. A modified technique for fabricating the dowel and core combines the direct technique of forming the dowel in the actual channel with the indirect technique of creating an ideal core contour in the laboratory. This technique allows the operator to create an accurate and passive fit of the dowel pattern in the canal preparation. The technique also introduces the option of retrieving the dowel portion by utilizing a polyvinyl siloxane cast or liner. Further advantages of the technique are reduced chairside time and the ability to capitalize on the preparation of multiple teeth. The technique focuses efforts on achieving an accurate and passive fit of the dowel clinically while delegating the formation of the core to the laboratory.