Combining elements of a layering composite system with a universal to simplify manufacturing of demanding anterior restorations

Anterior restorations are significantly more complex when compared with posterior restorations. In addition to occlusion, function, surface quality, and other factors to be considered, aesthetics is of considerable importance. Incisors are an optical puzzle, comprising different tissues that vary in opacity, translucency and chromatic values, while also exhibiting characteristics such as cracks, white spots or areas of amber. These features arise developmentally as well as through function, ageing, and/or occlusal parafunction.

Early composite systems were designed to reproduce an average shade close to that of the natural tissues, using a single composite mass and with no attention to natural details. Consequently, those materials were positioned between dentine and enamel in terms of translucency. Today, these shades are referred to as ‘body’ shades.¹ Body shade systems remain the most popular among dentists mainly as a result of their blending properties, which are directly related to a greater translucency parameter (TP), often marketed as the ‘chameleon effect.’ Undeniably, these systems perform well in cavities with most walls intact, such as Class I and III (Black's classification).² However, when the palatal wall is missing (Black's Class IV cavities), the increased translucency often results in a greyish overall appearance of the restorations, leading to a direct aesthetic failure.³ Materials used for such restorations should be more opaque, with reduced or no-chameleon properties. These materials display stronger individual shade characteristics and blend less well with the surrounding tooth structure, making shade selection critical for aesthetic success.⁴