Modern approach in Porcelain Laminate Veneers and Mastering posterior restorations

Topic 1 : Mastering posterior restorations : from direct to indirect techniques

Biomimetic dentistry aims to restore teeth in a way that replicates their natural structure and function. This approach minimizes the removal of healthy tooth structure and emphasizes long-term preservation.

Filling posterior cavities using direct resin composites is a very common procedure enabling a fast and affordable treatment for most of the patients. Dentists have the choice to use different techniques such as layering technique, bulk fill technique or mould injection technique.

Few years ago, a new category of resin-based composites, called bulk fill was launched and today it counts almost fifty systems from different companies.
The main advantages of those resin-based materials used in layers up to 4 mm, are the reduction of application time and the improved adaptation of the first layer of composite. In case of extensive tooth destruction or cusp fractures, the use of indirect techniques is indicated, mainly Inlay Onlays, overlays and Endocrowns. They are carried out over two appointments, and are made of ceramics or resin composites. The endocrown along with CAD/CAM technology represent a modern alternative to full crown. Through different cases using the most recent materials, this presentation will address the borderline between direct and indirect restorations. Step by step clinical procedures will be defined in order to achieve easy and successful aesthetic direct and indirect restorations.

Topic 2 : Modern approach in Porcelain Laminate Veneers : from preparation to cementation

Restoring a patient smile using ceramic veneers has always been considered as a challenging task for the dentist due to the fact that it is poorly explained at university, and not widely spread among dental practices. But the high aesthetic requirements of our patients together with the extensive marketing campaigns, have increased the demand for indirect veneers restorations.

Many steps are involved in achieving successful veneer restorations and basically two appointments at least, are needed. The aim of this presentation is to overview through well documented clinical cases, the different steps to follow in order to succeed this technique. During the first session, teeth preparation is achieved using adequate burs, followed by the impression and temporization. During the second appointment, the veneers are bonded using light cured resin cement.

Joseph Sabbagh graduated from Saint-Joseph university in Beirut. In 2004, he obtained his PhD in biomaterials from the catholic university of Louvain (UCL), Belgium. In 2000 he obtained a master in operative dentistry (restorative dentistry and endodontics) from the UCL. In parallel, he obtained two certificates of advanced studies in biomaterials and operative dentistry from the university of Paris-VII, France, in 1997 and 1998. In 2020 he obtained his HDR degree (Higher Degree of Research) from the Lebanese University, Beirut.

Currently, he is a Professor, and the former head of department and director of master program of restorative dentistry and Endodontics in the Lebanese university as well as the director of several research projects.

His private practice is limited to aesthetic dentistry and endodontics in Brussels and Beirut. He has published more than 25 papers in international peer-reviewed dental journals and has lectured locally and internationally. He has edited and published a book by Springer entitled ¨Bulk Fill Resin composites in dentistry¨ (January 2023). He is a member of several dental associations and a Key Opinion Leader for some major companies.