What does “Direct restoration” mean?
A direct restoration is made by placing and shaping filling material directly in a tooth inside the mouth. By contrast, an indirect restoration is made separately and then attached to the tooth.
What materials are used?
Materials for direct fillings include composite resin and glass ionomer. The choice depends on the damaged area, moisture control, and the required function.
What are the steps?
The damaged area is prepared, and the material is placed and hardened according to its requirements. The chewing surface and contact with the adjacent tooth are shaped to restore function, and the bite is checked.
How is the choice between direct and indirect restoration made?
The choice depends on the remaining tooth walls and cusps and the size and location of the defect. A direct restoration does not necessarily involve no tooth preparation or suit every large defect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all direct restorations made of resin?
Direct restoration describes a method. Depending on the purpose, filling materials other than composite resin may also be used.
Is it usually completed in one visit?
An individual direct filling can generally be made in one visit. The overall schedule changes if pulp treatment or treatment of several teeth is also needed.
Questions about direct restorations
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
Can the remaining tooth support the filling?
Explanation and evidenceThe condition of the cusps and walls is assessed alongside the size of the defect.
Cleveland Clinic · Dental Fillings - A choice suited to your condition
Are the contacts between teeth and the bite satisfactory after filling?
Explanation and evidenceThe shape is adjusted after checking whether food becomes trapped or a particular area contacts first.
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