Perfect Polish: Step-by-step Guide to Finishing and Polishing Anterior Restorations

In this comprehensive video tutorial, Dr. Lisel Balk shares a step-by-step approach to achieving impeccable finishing and polishing for anterior composite restorations. This meticulous process guarantees not only a beautiful final result but also ensures the longevity of the restoration.

Dr. Balk’s wealth of knowledge and valuable insights in this video tutorial will greatly benefit dental professionals who are eager to enhance their techniques in achieving a flawless polish on anterior composite restorations. By following the step-by-step tutorial, you will gain a deep understanding of the precise polishing sequence and optimal speeds required to achieve an enduring and radiant shine.

Tools and Materials

Dr. Balk begins by using Renamel Microfill® to complete the restoration, a reliable choice for anterior composite restorations. The shade shown in this video is SB1. To perfect the finishing and polishing process, she employs the Cosmedent® FlexiDisc® Mini All Purpose Kit. This kit consists of aluminum oxide discs categorized by coarseness levels, providing a color-coded, systematic approach to achieving the desired results. Their mini centers maximize the surface of the disc.

Step 1: Coarse Gray Disc

Dr. Balk initiates the process with the Coarse Gray FlexiDisc, operating at 10,000 RPMs. The key here is to apply gentle pressure. This disc is ideal for the initial contouring of the restoration, smoothing out imperfections, and ensuring the restoration seamlessly meets the natural tooth structure. Dr. Balk emphasizes the importance of creating a long-lasting restoration with minimal staining by meticulously shaping the tooth’s line angles, length, and contours.

Step 2: Medium Blue Disc

Following the initial contouring, Dr. Balk moves on to the Medium Blue FlexiDisc. Again, she works with precision at 10,000 RPMs, using the disc to refine and contour the restoration further. Paying close attention to the gingival margin (the 3/8” disc works best around the gingival) and line angles, this step helps remove any scratches while maintaining the integrity of adjacent teeth.

Step 3: Pink Superfine FlexiPoint

Next, Dr. Balk grabs the Superfine Pink FlexiPoint to create lobes in the restorations. These lobes will mimic the natural tooth structure. She moves the FlexiPoint from the incisal to the gingival, using the point towards the gingival and building a wider base at the incisal.  The goal is to make the tooth look as natural as possible.

Step 4: Yellow Fine Disc

The Yellow Fine FlexiDisc marks the beginning of the final polishing stage, still at 10,000 RPMs. Dr. Balk stresses the importance of applying ample pressure to achieve a high shine. These discs come in various sizes to suit different tooth sizes, ensuring efficiency in every restoration. Dr. Balk meticulously polishes the restoration, ensuring that every aspect of the tooth, including embrasures, has a lustrous finish.

Step 5: Pink Superfine Disc

For the ultimate luster, Dr. Balk employs the Pink Superfine FlexiDisc, working at 10,000 RPMs. She delicately shapes lobes on the restoration, mirroring the natural tooth structure. This step adds finesse and authenticity to the final result, making the restoration blend seamlessly with adjacent teeth.

Step 6: Final Polishing with Enamelize™ Polishing Paste and the FlexiBuff Disc

To achieve the finishing touch, Dr. Balk uses Enamelize™ Polishing Paste, an aluminum-oxide paste, in conjunction with the FlexiBuff® Disc. This unique disc, featuring felt on the bottom, provides the final polish. Dr. Balk applies a modest amount of paste, using the FlexiBuff Disc at 10-15,000 RPMs with gentle pressure. This step further enhances the restoration’s appearance, making it shine brilliantly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Lisel Balk’s expert guidance takes us through a meticulous journey of finishing and polishing anterior composite restorations. This step-by-step approach ensures that your final result is not only aesthetically pleasing but also durable. With attention to detail and the right tools, every dental professional can achieve flawless anterior composite restorations.

About the AuthorDr. Lisel Balk

Dr. Lisel Balk earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) summa cum laude, from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, after receiving her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) summa cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania. She is an active member of the American Dental Association and PENN Alumni Association.

Dr. Lisel has been a General Dentist for the past 11 years, with three years spent practicing in Boston. Boston magazine has recognized Dr. Balk in their Top Dentists issues for three consecutive years: 2017, 2018, and 2019. Doctors receive this distinction with votes from their peers.

Dr. Lisel knew from a young age that she was interested in becoming a dentist after visiting her General Dentist for routine checkups and after having braces. At each visit, she watched and observed and was fascinated to learn that individuals in this profession can help others feel better, make them smile, and help bring back their self-confidence. She enjoys all aspects of dentistry and is committed to ensuring that each patient she comes into contact with leaves happy and content. Her greatest satisfaction is knowing that she can help patients through restorative dentistry, which helps them feel better and helps restore their self-confidence.

Dr. Lisel has been training with some of the best cosmetic dentists from Utah, Brazil, and London and focuses on cosmetic dentistry, specifically non-invasive resin veneers. Dr. Lisel is a fan of minimally invasive dentistry with maximum results.

Originally from Port of Spain, Trinidad, where she was born, raised, and received her education through secondary school, Dr. Lisel has lived in Philadelphia and Boston. She recently relocated to Florida with her husband, two children, and their two cats.

In her spare time, Dr. Lisel is also a dance instructor at a studio in Boca Raton and has an avid passion for choreography. You can see her dancing around the office from time to time!