What types of materials are commonly used for direct restorations?

Direct restorations refer to dental restoration procedures that are completed in one office visit, where the material is applied directly to the cavity or defect in the tooth. The two primary materials commonly utilized for these direct restorations are composite resins and glass ionomer cements.

Composite resins are favored for their aesthetic qualities, allowing for a natural tooth-like appearance, and their ability to bond chemically and mechanically to tooth structure. They are versatile, being used for everything from filling small cavities to providing a cosmetic enhancement to the teeth.

Glass ionomers, on the other hand, provide additional benefits, particularly in their ability to release fluoride, which can help prevent further decay. These materials adhere well to the teeth and have a good aesthetic quality, although they may not be as durable as composite resins for high-stress areas.

The other choices mention materials that serve different purposes in dentistry. Dental crowns and bridges are indirect restorations, meaning they are fabricated outside the mouth, while denture materials and orthodontic brackets serve very different functions related to removable prosthetics and orthodontic treatment, respectively. Dental wax and temporaries are used in specific situations for temporary restorations but are not classified as the primary candidates for direct restorations.