When a dentist discusses repairing a tooth, they often use unfamiliar terminology. The term “buckle” is frequently misheard, but it almost certainly refers to the “buccal” surface of a tooth. Understanding this specific location is the first step in comprehending the repair process. Buccal repair is a common procedure in restorative dentistry, focusing on returning the tooth to its proper shape and function after damage.
Translating the Term: Understanding the Buccal Surface
The term “buccal” is a directional term in dentistry meaning “relating to the cheek.” The buccal surface is the side of a tooth that faces the cheek or is adjacent to the cheek lining. This term specifically describes the outer portion of the back teeth, the premolars and molars. For front teeth, the outer surface is called the labial surface, meaning “lip-facing.”
This cheek-facing side is anatomically significant because it contains features that make it susceptible to damage. The tooth structure may include natural depressions, known as buccal pits, especially on the lower molars. These small grooves and pits can trap food particles and bacteria, making the area vulnerable to decay. Because the buccal surface is easily accessible, it is a straightforward area for dentists to examine and restore.
Identifying Common Issues Requiring Buccal Repair
Repairing the buccal surface most often addresses two main categories of damage: dental decay and non-carious lesions. Decay occurs when acid produced by bacteria demineralizes the tooth enamel.
Decay found in the naturally occurring pits and fissures on the buccal surface is classified as Class I decay. A common form of decay is Class V decay, which occurs near the gum line in the cervical third of the tooth. This decay is often linked to the difficulty of cleaning the tooth surface right at the gum margin, where the enamel is thinner and more vulnerable.
Non-carious lesions are another frequent reason for buccal repair. Aggressive horizontal toothbrushing can lead to abrasion, physically wearing away the enamel at the gumline. Similarly, erosion from acid exposure, such as stomach acid or acidic beverages, can dissolve the enamel and dentin, creating a notch or divot. Both abrasion and erosion cause sensitivity and structural weakness, requiring restorative treatment to rebuild the lost tooth structure.
Methods of Repair and Restoration
The approach to repairing a buccal surface depends on the size and depth of the damage. For small to moderate decay or non-carious lesions, a direct restoration using a dental filling is the standard procedure. Composite resin, a tooth-colored plastic and glass mixture, is the most common material used today. It is favored for its aesthetic qualities, especially since the buccal surface is often visible.
The filling process involves the dentist removing the damaged material and cleaning the cavity. A bonding agent is applied to prepare the remaining tooth structure for the composite resin. The resin is placed into the prepared area, shaped to match the natural contour of the tooth, and hardened with a specialized curing light. Amalgam, a silver-colored metal alloy, can also be used, though it is generally reserved for very large restorations on back teeth.
When damage is extensive, such as a large fracture or a deep cavity that has weakened the entire tooth, a full coverage restoration is necessary. A dental crown or a partial crown, known as an onlay, may be recommended to restore the tooth’s structural integrity. These procedures involve shaping the tooth and placing a custom-made cap over it, providing comprehensive protection and restoring full function.