Biomimetic Dentistry
The principles we adhere to in every case are based in this science. And it is well explained in the book by Dr Pascal Magne, Bonded Porcelain Restorations in the Anterior Dentition: A Biomimetic Approach.
Here is a portion of the preface which describes this philosophy.
(The most exciting developements in dentistry have emerged withing the past decade. Oral implant dentistry, guided tissue regeneration, and adhesive restorative dentistry are strategic growth areas both in research and in cloinical practice. However, the many advances in dental materials and technology have generated a plethora of dental products in the marketplace. Clinicians and dental technicians are faced with difficult choices as the number of treatment modalities continues to grow. Further, changes in technology do not simplify technique or decrease treatment costs. Prudence and wisdom need to be combined with knowledge and progress when it comes to improving our patients' welfare.
In this perplexing context, no one will contest the need for less expensive, satisfactory, and rational substitutes for current treatments. The answer might come from an emerging interdisciplinary biomaterial science called biomimetics. This concept of medical research involves the investigation of the structure and physical function of biologic "composites" and the design of new and improved substitutes. Biomimetcis in dental medicine has increasing relevance. The primary meaning for dentistry refers to processing material in a manner similar to that by the oral cavity, such as the calcification of a soft tissue precursor. The secondary meaning refers to the mimicking or recovery of the biomechanics of the original tooth by the restoration. This, of course, is the goal of restorative dentistry.
Several research disciplines in dental medicine have evolved with the purpose to mimic oral structures. However, this nascent principle is applied mostly at a molecular level, with the aim to enhance wound healing, repair, and regeneration of soft and hard tissues. When extended to a macrostuctural level, biomimetics can trigger innovative applications in restorative dentistry. Restoring or mimicking the biomechanical, structural, and esthetic integrity of the teeth is the driving force of this process. Therefore, the objective of this book is to propose new criteria for esthetic restorative dentistry based on biomimetics.
Biomimetics in restorative dentistry starts with an understanding of hard tissue structure related stress distribution within the intact tooth, which is the focus of the opening chapter of this book. It is immediately followed by a systematic review of parameters related to the natural oral esthetics. Because the driving forces of restorative dentistry are maintenance of tooth vitality and maximum conservation of intact hard tissues, a brief chapter describes the ultraconservative treatment options that can precede a more sophisticated treatment. The core of the book centers on the application of the bopmimetic principle in the form of bonded porcelain restorations (BRPs). The broad spectrum of indications for BPRs is described, followed by detailed instruction on the treatment planning and diagnostic approach, which is the first step in learning this technique. The treatment is then described step-by-step, including tooth preparation and impression, laboratory procedures related to the fabrication of the ceramic workpiece, and its final insertion through adhesive luting procedures. The book ends with discussion of the follow-up, maintenance, and repair of BPRs.
I would have been unable to achieve this work without the valued collaboration of other dentists, dental technicians, specialists, and researchers. We should always remember that a key element for successful and predictable restoration is teamwork and an essential ingredient for teamwork is humility, to consider others better then oneself. We must try to serve each other rather than expect to be served).
