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Clinical tooth preparations and associated measuring methods: a systematic review.
Janine Tiu1, Basil Al-Amleh2, J Neil Waddell2
1Doctoral student, Sir John Walsh Research Institute, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry
|December 3, 2014
Summary
This systematic review found that total occlusal convergence (TOC) is a key factor in crown retention. Recommended TOC angles have increased, suggesting improved understanding of tooth preparation geometry for dental crowns.
Area of Science:
- Dental Restorations
- Prosthodontics
- Biomaterials and Dental Technology
Background:
- Tooth preparation geometry is critical for the retention and resistance of cemented complete crowns.
- Current understanding of clinically relevant tooth preparation values and measurement methodologies is unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and critically appraise studies measuring clinical tooth preparation parameters.
- To specifically evaluate the methodologies employed for measuring preparation geometry.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive database search (Scopus, PubMed, ScienceDirect) and hand search.
- Screening of articles based on inclusion/exclusion criteria.
- Extraction and tabulation of data on total occlusal convergence (TOC) angle, margin design, and measurement methods.
Main Results:
- 23 articles reported clinical tooth preparation values from an initial 1006 publications.
- Total occlusal convergence (TOC) was reported in 20 articles; margin designs and angles in 4 each; abutment height in 3.
- A diverse range of methods were utilized for measuring these preparation parameters.
Conclusions:
- Total occlusal convergence (TOC) appears to be the most significant preparation parameter.
- Recommended TOC values have evolved from 2-5 degrees to 10-22 degrees over four decades.
- Standardized measurement and reporting methods for preparation geometry are recommended for future research.
