Correct Answer: does not adhere to teeth.
porcelain is often chosen for various dental procedures due to its esthetic qualities and durability, particularly in the fabrication of dental crowns, bridges, and veneers. its ability to mimic the appearance of natural tooth enamel, coupled with its resistance to wear, makes it an excellent choice for these indirect restorative applications. however, when it comes to direct restorative work, such as fillings, porcelain is not commonly used.
one significant limitation of using porcelain for direct restorative work is its handling characteristics. unlike composite resins or amalgam, which can be directly manipulated and shaped within the mouth, porcelain restorations must be crafted in a dental lab before being bonded to the tooth. this process is not conducive to the immediate and often shape-specific needs of filling cavities directly.
furthermore, porcelain does not adhere well to tooth structure on its own. adhesion is a critical factor for the success of fillings, as the restorative material must bond robustly with the tooth to restore function and prevent further decay or damage. typically, porcelain restorations require the use of specialized cements or bonding agents to secure them in place, which is a more complex and less predictable process compared to the direct application of materials like dental composite.
in conclusion, while porcelain is a durable and aesthetically pleasing material ideal for many dental applications, its inability to be easily manipulated and its poor inherent adhesion to tooth structure make it unsuitable for direct restorative work like fillings. materials that can be easily applied, shaped, and bonded directly in the dental office, such as composite resins, are preferred for these purposes.
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