Performing a Deep Class II Restoration on Tooth No. 12 DO, Anesthesia Free and Pain Free
Class II restorations and the dental experience for dentists and patients have a close connection. From the dentist’s point of view, this type of procedure can be challenging and time consuming. On the patient’s part, there is always anxiety that accompanies sitting in the chair for an extended period of time and, of course, the needle.
Recently, a 42-year-old patient came in for a routine visit. During his oral examination, we noticed that the amalgam around the margins on tooth No. 12 DO (Figures 1 and 2) had failed and that there was also recurrent decay. Because I have been performing Class II procedures for years, I was well aware of how involved this procedure could become due to injecting anesthesia and other factors. However, with Solea (Convergent Dental), the Class II restoration has become much simpler to perform.
The clinical objective of this case was to achieve a highly aesthetic restoration without using an anesthetic. As far as the objective for the patient, who had already expressed apprehension toward the needle and being numbed, I wanted to keep the experience as comfortable as possible. Solea allowed me to do both.
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| Figures 1 and 2. Preoperative view. |
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| Figures 3 and 4. View after being prepped with Solea (Convergent Dental). |
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| Figures 5 and 6. Postoperative view after being restored with Solea. |
Technique With Solea
Using Solea, I started the procedure by outlining the existing amalgam and then the amalgam margin. Thanks to how easy it is to choose the appropriate spot size, mist, and cutting speed, this was done quickly and efficiently. The beam was then angled away from the margin at approximately 20° to 45° to relieve the retention while minimizing contact. Next, I sectioned the amalgam with a 330 carbide bur in an electric high-speed handpiece. Each fragment was then flipped out with an explorer.
Reaching for Solea again, I successfully removed the caries and executed a prep extension. After a final smoothing of the axial walls and cavosurface with a fine diamond, Solea allowed me to complete the final etching and preparation (Figures 3 and 4).
This Class II procedure required no anesthesia. It was initiated, and the restoration was completed using a rubber dam for isolation (Figures 5 and 6).
Benefits of Using Solea
If it were not for Solea, the dental experience would have greatly suffered. Because I did not have to use anesthetic, there was significant time savings. Typically, a Class II restoration would have taken approximately 40 minutes, but with Solea, I was able to complete this procedure in less than 15 minutes. Additionally, another advantage of Solea’s anesthesia-free dentistry was easy confirmation of the occlusion. If the patient was numbed beforehand, we would have had to schedule a second appointment for a bite adjustment. Solea allowed us to do everything in just one visit. Not to mention, the patient was happy to avoid the needle and was pleased with how fast he was in and out of the chair.
CONCLUSION
Solea is an all-tissue CO2 dental laser that is exceptional for procedures involving cutting hard tissue and enamel. Whenever a patient comes in for a Class II procedure, Solea is always my go-to device. I know I will be able to ablate the enamel and dentin just about perfectly for a clean, seamless preparation and restoration every time. Solea has redefined the Class II restoration and created a superior dental experience.
For more information, call Convergent Dental at (844) GO-SOLEA or visit the website convergentdental.com.
Dr. Anderson founded a startup private practice in Bismarck, ND. After receiving his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, he completed his general practice residency at Hennepin County Medical Center (level 1 trauma center). He truly believes that technology helps dentists to work smarter, have more fun, and ignite their passion for their businesses, all while improving the patient experience and achieving better clinical outcomes. He leverages CEREC, CBCT, 3-D printing, and Solea laser technology to deliver comprehensive, quality oral health care that is patient-centered.
