Composite Build-Ups: a Review of Current Techniques in Restorative Dentistry

Composite build-ups are a widely used technique for the restoration of worn teeth, first described by Bevenius et al.¹ Multiple composite build-ups can be a useful, minimally invasive technique for patients with complex treatment needs. Composite restorations can also be used as a diagnostic tool to assess how patients would respond to an increased vertical dimension, as they can be added to and removed, causing minimal damage to the underlying tooth structure. Composite restorations are also cost-effective and minimally abrasive to opposing tooth surfaces.² Although indirect restorations are also a valid option in the management of worn teeth, they will not be the primary focus of this paper, as they are substantially more invasive, but a case using indirect restorations has been described later in this article.

Resin composite materials have been around since the 1960s, ever since the introduction of the bis-GMA monomer in 1962 by Bowen.³ Following on from Bowen, pioneers such as Chang (1969) and Lee (1970)⁴ developed composite materials in a paste/liquid form. It was not until the late 70s that a distinct photopolymerized system was available.⁵