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Fibre technology, like all dental treatments, have certain limitations.
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Unlike most other treatments, however, these techniques are reversible and minimally invasive in nature.
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The following will help you to recognize these limitations and will serve as a valuable tool to help you with your treatment planning and patient selection.
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Discuss all treatment options.
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Cost plays a major role in treatment option selection.
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Age of patient: always consider the life expectancy of the patient.
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Lead the patient in all aspects of the different treatment options.
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Let the patient decide.
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Beware of applying pre-selected treatments.
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When a fibre-reinforced composite restoration is indicated as the treatment option of preference – then remember:
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Oral hygiene.
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Immature enamel (deciduous teeth) – difficult in bonding procedures.
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Sclerotic enamel (elderly patient). These and other conditions of enamel will have a negative effect on bonding.
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Occlusal relation (bite of the patient: Class 1,2 or 3)
Beware of a deep or closed bite.
Bruxism.
Traumatic occlusion.
Lateral excursions.
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Like in all adhesive restorations, technique plays an important role. Remember:
Dry operating field (rubber dam).
Proper etching and bonding (always refer to the manufacturer's instructions).
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Always apply sound fixed prosthodontic principles like:
Span of bridge.
Critical evaluation of the supporting retainer units (check your X-rays!).
Embrasure area (inter-dental papillae).
Maintenance (plaque control).
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Show the patient exactly how to maintain good oral hygiene:
super floss, inter-dental brushes, etc.
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