Saving Patients From Themselves: Making Restorations Easier to Keep Clean

Many restorative failures are not material failures. They are design failures.

Small contour decisions determine whether a restoration becomes self-cleansing or plaque-retentive. This masterclass turns biological principles into practical chairside strategies that improve longevity and reduce complications.

Dr. Michael Frazis examines contact point anatomy, emergence profile design, and how subtle contour errors influence food impaction, plaque retention, and periodontal health.
Dr. Frazis when to replicate natural anatomy and when to intentionally modify it in cases of periodontal breakdown, while identifying predictable plaque stagnation zones and how thoughtful restorative design, supported by effective oral health care products, can improve long-term patient outcomes.

By the end of this lecture, you will be able to:

• Analyze contact point position and morphology in relation to periodontal stability
• Design emergence profiles that facilitate effective plaque control
• Justify when to replicate natural tooth anatomy and when to intentionally modify it for improved cleansability
• Identify high-risk plaque stagnation zones around restorations and implement corrective design strategies