Traditional prosthodontic principles of stabilization and retention do not align with the biology (pulp survival), function, and mechanics of natural teeth. A biomimetic approach is proposed instead, in which all of the prepared dental tissues return to full function through a hard tissue bond. Functional stresses pass through the tooth, drawing the entire crown into the final functional, biologic, and esthetic result. This is in sharp contrast to the porcelain-fused-to-metal or porcelain-fused-to-ceramic technique in which the stiff metal or ceramic coping makes the underlying tooth structure hypofunctional. New biomimetic principles will ultimately result in the abandon of intraradicular posts or full-coverage crowns, resulting in considerable improvements comprising both medical-biologic aspects and the socioeconomic context (ie, decreased costs when compared to traditional and more invasive prosthetic treatments).

C5001 • Dennis Tarnow - Biologic and Clinical Factors for Ultimate Esthetics Around Implants