Cuspal Coverage Restorations

Question 1

what is a cuspal coverage restoration?

Answer 1

a direct/indirect restoration which covers all/some of the cusps on the occlusal surface oof a tooth but not the full buccal/lingual/mesial/distal surface

Question 2

when may a cuspal coverage restoration be appropriate?

Answer 2

• when a tooth is weakened
• correct occlusal discrepancies
• be part of the restorative reorganisation of the occlusal scheme

Question 3

what factors should be considered when deciding whether a tooth would be best restored with cuspal coverage or an intracoronal restoration will depend on:

Answer 3

• whether the tooth is endodontically treated or not
• the amount and distribution of tooth structure remaining
• the type and amount of load applied on the tooth during function
• the parafunctional habits of the patient
• the aesthetic value of the tooth
• the knowledge and experience of the dentist

Question 4

if there is sufficient tooth structure available is a post retained crown favourable or not?

Answer 4

no - a post free croown would be favoourable if there is sufficient tooth structure

Question 5

what are the advantages of cuspal coverage restorations compared to full coverage/intracoronal only restorations?

Answer 5

• protects cusps (compared too intra coronal)
• reduces sound tooth removal (compared to full coverage)
• reduces amount of restorative material required (compared to full coverage)
• easier to inspect margins (compared to subgingingival/full coverage)
• potentially better aesthetics buccally (compared to full coverage)

Question 6

what are the disadvantages of cuspal coverage restorations compared to full coverage/intracoronal only restorations?

Answer 6

• complex preps
• complex restorations for lab
• expense (compared to intracoronal)

Answer 7

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