Direct from the Operatory: Bioactive Restoration of Decayed Wisdom Tooth

By Dr. Oliver Mayoral

A new patient presented with root caries on the buccal and distal aspects of tooth #1 (Figure 1). His dentist of many years recommended an extraction, and the patient came to me for a second opinion. There is an opposing third molar, so this tooth is functional, although gaining access to restore the distal can be a challenge.

The tooth was prepared (Figure 2) and etched, followed by an application of Scotchbond Universal Adhesive (3M) and placement of ACTIVA BioACTIVE-RESTORATIVE. The ACTIVA BioACTIVE syringe has a bendable metal cannula, and this made it easy to access the distal of the third molar, which otherwise would have been much more difficult to treat. The material adapted well to the tooth and polished nicely, providing a very good result.

Figure 1. Root caries on the buccal and distal aspects of tooth #1.
Figure 2. Shows preparation
Figure 3. Final restoration

About Dr. Oliver Mayoral

Dr. Mayoral is a Miami native who received his Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. As a respected leader in his field, Dr. Mayoral holds memberships in organizations that include the American Dental Association, the Florida Dental Association and the South Florida Dentists in Pursuit of Excellence. Known by his patients for his warm, comforting bedside manner, Dr. Mayoral also enjoys volunteering his dentistry services at the Lotus House and the Camillus House, both local shelters in the Miami area.