The 'new' operative dentistry

During the past few decades, life expectancy has increased significantly. As a result, mature patients often have receding gingival tissues, physical and mental debilitation, less energy and motivation, and the resultant Class V carious lesions. In this article, I suggest the use of high-level fluoride in toothpastes, remineralizing pastes and high-level fluoride gels for topical application in trays to reduce the progression of caries. To accompany fluoride therapy, high-fluoride-releasing restorative materials are indicated for Class V carious lesions. Adequate caries-preventive and restorative concepts for mature patients require planning, patient education and close patient supervision.