Introduction to Dental Materials

Dr. Adel Aladimi

Biomaterials

Oral Tissues
– Enamel
– Dentin
– Cementum
– Pulp
– Periodontium
– Gingival Tissue
Objectives

 Discuss some of the conditions that make the

oral cavity hostile to dental materials
 Identify ideal properties of dental materials
 Explain how dental materials, drugs,
instruments and equipment are evaluated
 Summarize the reasons the dental hygienist
should be knowledgeable about the science
of dental materials
 Name and discuss classification categories
Replacement Materials

Restriction on use:

1. Biting forces
2. Degradation of
materials and teeth
3. Temperature changes
4. Biocompatibility
5. Esthetics
Characteristics of an Ideal Dental
Material

1. Biocompatible
2. Mechanically Stable & Durable
3. Resistant to Corrosion or Chemicals
4. Dimensionally Stable
5. Minimally Conductive – thermal & electrical
6. Esthetic
7. Easy to Manipulate
8. Adherent to Tissues
9. Tasteless and Odorless
10. Cost-effective
History

Ancient Times to the 1700’s

– Gold, Ivory, Porcelain, Wax, Gypsum, Cements (Zinc
phosphate & ZOE)
During the 1800’s
– Amalgam in use, Porcelain inlays & crowns
The 20th Century
– New materials constantly developed
– Variety of cast metals: gold, chromium & nickel,
chromium & cobalt, and titanium
– Polymers and Composites
Standards for Dental Materials

 Medical Device Amendment of 1976

– FDA considers dental materials as medical devices
– FDA has authority to ensure safety of dental materials

 Council for Scientific Affairs of the ADA

– ADA Seal of Acceptance
Classifications of Dental Materials by
Use

1. Restorative 6. Cements
Materials 7. Temporary Materials
2. Restorations & 8. Preventive Materials
Crowns 9. Polishing Materials
3. Bridges 10. Implants
4. Complete & Partial 11. Specialty Materials
Dentures
5. Impression Casts &
Models
Classification by Location of
Fabrication

 Direct Restorative Materials

– Constructed directly in the oral cavity
 Amalgams, Composites, Glass ionomers

 Indirect Restorative Materials

– Fabricated outside the oral cavity
 Gold crowns and inlays
 Ceramic materials
 Indirect restorative polymers
Classification by Longevity of Use

Permanent
Restorations

– Don’t last forever,

but give years of
service
Longevity, con’t

 Temporary Restorations
– Planned to be
replaced in a short
time

 Interim Restorations
– Long term temporary
restorations
Discussion

 What are some implications of dental

hygiene practice on dental materials?
 Why do you think this might be important?
 What are your thoughts about hygienists
doing restorative procedures? Is this
something you would enjoy doing?