Increased research on biomaterials has led to the introduction of vastly improved dental materials. Developments in impression materials and gold foil and advancements in knowledge about liners and sealers are also factors that have resulted in better care and treatment for patients. Advances in metallurgy have resulted in a variety of improved alloys that are either already available or are being developed.
Corrosion-resistant amalgam alloys have been developed that will enhance the oral health of the population by providing longerlasting restorations.
All of the factors just mentioned have played an important role in the development of operative dentistry.
They have resulted in a reduction of the incidence of caries and a more conservativeand effective approach toward treatment, with the ultimate result of improved oral health for all populations.
Because of the dynamic status of operative dentistry, many future developments and advancements will undoubtedly occur. These advances in technology, science, and materials will have a significant effect on the future practice of and demand for operative dentistry. However, there are other factors that will also affect the future of operative dentistry.
To project the future demand for operative dentistry treatment, both current and projected dental health in the United States must be identified. This necessitates a projection of demographic changes, economic factors, and dental health and the effect of these on the future demand for dental services.