What is Biomimetic Dentistry?
Using the most current science today, Biomimetic Dentistry (Bio meaning “life”, and mimetic meaning “like”) focuses on preserving as much of the natural hard tooth structure when a tooth needs to be restored. Only by going back to the science of how a tooth is naturally created are we able to develop minimally invasive techniques that emulate a natural tooth. This not only strengthens the tooth but mimics or emulates the natural strength, structure, and function of a healthy tooth.
That being said, it’s not all about drilling the tooth less, but about keeping the tooth strong. It’s also about the use of special bonding techniques and the judicious use of bonded sealants, fillings, inlays, and onlays first before considering crowns. These restorations should not only fill the deficiency in the tooth but also restore the toothache’s strength and function while at the same time sealing the tooth against the reinfection from tooth decay.
Preserving more of the hard tooth structure also means the accurate early diagnosis of tooth decay and cracks so that they can be treated as early as possible with minimally invasive techniques. Early diagnosis of tooth decay is based on the Modern Model of Tooth Decay and the use of special tooth decay detection dyes and laser fluorescence technology tools.
Biomimetic Dentistry emphasizes the long-term survival of the tooth rather than the long-term success of the restoration itself. It allows for the failure of the restoration that is more easily repairable versus catastrophic failure of the tooth itself or the nerve of the tooth. When we consider that more drilling on tooth structure correlates with the need for future root canal treatment and loss of a tooth, then the minimally invasive nature of Biomimetic Dentistry should be considered.
Talk to Dr. Arellano today to discuss your concerns and get on the path to greater overall health.
