Restorative & Materials · patient case question
An elderly patient presents with multiple Class V cervical lesions, poor manual dexterity, and moderate xerostomia. Which restorative material is most appropriate?
Patient case: Erosion in a High-Acid Diet
demo: 27-year-old female
chief: “My back teeth feel notched and everything is sensitive.”
history: Consumes 5–7 whole lemons daily. Reports nocturnal bruxism. No reflux, no purging behavior.
meds: None
findings: Cupped, smooth, glossy defects on the occlusal surfaces of the posterior teeth with amalgam restorations standing proud of the surrounding enamel. Generalized dentin hypersensitivity.
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Glass ionomer or resin-modified glass ionomer
- A. Gold foil is technique-sensitive, time-consuming, and essentially obsolete for this indication.
- B. Correct. Glass ionomer bonds chemically to dentin, releases fluoride, tolerates a moist field, and performs well in a high-caries-risk, xerostomic patient with limited hygiene.
- C. Amalgam requires mechanical retention and undermines cervical tooth structure in a Class V preparation.
- D. Porcelain veneers are an esthetic elective option, poorly suited to cervical caries control in this patient.
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