The change in dentistry from need based dentistry to elective dentistry has made a significant impact on the profession and the public perception of dentists. It is estimated that up to one half of the dentistry accomplished at this time is elective. Much of this treatment is what could be considered to be esthetic dentistry including bleaching, bonding, veneers, tooth colored inlays and onlays, non metallic crowns and fixed prosthesis. Dentists and their staff must be proactive in their patient educational activities to stimulate patients to desire these elective procedures. Self-instruction...

Thermoplastic resins have been used in dentistry for over 50 years and during this period their applications have continued to grow. They have outstandingly gained interest both by the professionals and the public. The main goal of today's prosthetic dentistry is the functional and aesthetic rehabilitation of the whole maxillofacial system. The dentists have to meet growing demands for prosthetic rehabilitation due to population aging and higher requirements on the quality of life. With the development of new properties, thermoplastic resins are surely stretching Prosthodontics within...