Biomimetic direct composite stratification technique for the restoration of anterior teeth

The aim of this article is to describe a simplified layering technique based on a biomimetic approach for large anterior Class 4 restorations. The proposed layering technique is based on a modified layering technique where palatal enamel and dentin masses are replaced with the same quantity of a microhybrid enamel and dentin shade composites, respectively, while for the thin buccal enamel layer a microfilled resin composite is used. Transparencies and, whenever necessary, white spot characterizations, are created by interposing blue and white effect masses between dentin mamelons, under buccal enamel. The combination of a microfilled composite with a microhybrid composite substituting the same quantity of lost enamel and dentin better mimics the physical and optical characteristics of the natural tooth. The biomimetic composite restoration may be considered an interesting alternative to ceramics, minimizing invasiveness, chair time, and costs for patients. Keywords: biomimetic approach, composite restorations, layering technique