OCCLUSAL SURFACE COPYING TECHNIQUE IN POSTERIOR TEETH

Abstract

The accurate reconstruction of occlusal morphology in posterior teeth remains one of the major challenges in contemporary restorative dentistry. Manual modeling of the occlusal surface is frequently associated with increased chairside time, imperfect reproduction of anatomical details, and the need for subsequent occlusal adjustments.

The Stamp Technique represents a minimally invasive restorative approach that enables precise anatomical reconstruction of the tooth through the use of a preoperative impression of the natural occlusal morphology.

This technique is particularly effective in cases where the carious lesion is present while the occlusal surface anatomy remains preserved. The method ensures improved adaptation of the composite material, enhances both functional and esthetic outcomes, and significantly reduces clinical working time, as well as the duration required for finishing and polishing procedures.

Prior to the clinical implementation of this method, refinement and evaluation of the technique were considered necessary. The study was conducted on 11 extracted human molars and 9 plastic teeth of a phantom occludator. Restoration of both plastic and extracted teeth using the Stamp Technique demonstrated that the method was successful in all plastic teeth, as the occlusal morphology remained intact. In extracted teeth presenting deep fissures with visible carious defects, additional occlusal modeling was required. Nevertheless, despite the need for additional contouring, the clinician’s chairside time was still considerably reduced.