Introduction to Dental Materials

Here is a long awaited new edition in this essential area for all dental students. This textbook considers the properties and applications of dental materials and includes all the neccessary basic science and clinical applications.

Virtually all procedures in restorative dentistry make use of a dental material. Among these materials are metals, ceramics, polymers and composites, and their uses include filling of cavities and root canals and the making of impressions or replicas of teeth and tissues prior to the constructions of dentures. All dental students need to acquire a working knowledge of both the properties and applications of the materials which they will use.

The very broad spectrum of materials now available leaves the dental student with even less time than in the past to understand the technology of dental materials. The emphasis now is on communication with the dental laboratory, and on how to recognise whether the laboratory is producing quality output. The new edition will reflect these changes.

• Comprehensive and readable coverage addresses issues related to the composition, handling, and application of materials used by dentists in clinical practice.
• The necessary basic science is presented in a clear and understandable manner.
• The final section covers what the dentist needs to know about laboratory materials used by technicians in the construction of dental prostheses.

New sections on resin modified glass ionomer cements, polyacid modified resin composites and luting systems.

Extensive updating of sections on endodontics and dental ceramics.

New stress on quality issues - eg the dentist needs to be able to identify problems with impressions taken for dentures, and to know whether the laboratory will be able to work with them.

Richard Van Noort, Professor of Dental Materials Science, Department of Restorative Dentistry, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK