In the dynamic landscape of restorative dentistry, innovative techniques constantly emerge to enhance patient outcomes and simplify procedures. Among these advancements are Vertiprep and Biologically Oriented Preparation Technique (BOPT), which are reshaping how dental professionals approach restorative treatments.
Vertiprep
Vertiprep, short for vertical tooth preparation, is a technique designed to preserve tooth structure while ensuring aesthetic results. Unlike in traditional horizontal preparations, there is no finish line, yet the crown margin is dictated by the course of the gingiva. It’s also often referred to as ‘shoulderless' edge or feather edge.
Key Benefits
- Preservation of tooth structure, especially in the cervical area, which is particularly beneficial for teeth that are periodontally or structurally compromised
- Improved aesthetics with the possibility of positioning the final finish line at different levels and modulating the emergence profile
BOPT
Biologically Oriented Preparation Technique (BOPT) is a popular form of vertical preparation for complete crowns, first proposed by Loi et al. focusing on the biological principles of tooth preparation. BOPT involves preparation into the sulcus to remove the convexity at the cementoenamel junction (CEJ), thereby slightly damaging the gingiva intentionally (‘gingitage’).
Key Benefits
- Increased gingival thickness, by removing the convexity at the CEJ
- Less risk of recession, creating a new prosthetic junction and stabilising the blood cloth
Which material should I use?
Vertiprep and BOPT result in very thin margins. If not carefully managed, this margin type can result in elevated stresses in comparison with other margin types. This may result in a margin that is weak in tension and therefore subject to chipping or fracture. In view of this, the vertical margin is not recommended for lithium disilicate and cubic zirconia crowns. However, with Initial Zirconia Disk HT, these techniques can be safely applied.
What should I pay attention to?
As the margins are not very well visible/defined, it is very important to ensure good communication between dentist lab technician regarding the margin location and the material to be used.
Vertiprep and BOPT represent progressive approaches to restorative dentistry.
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Castelo-Baz P, Freire-Álvarez-Blázquez M, Pereira-Lores P, Álvarez-Nóvoa P, Dablanca-Blanco A, Miguéns-Vila R, Martín-Biedma B. Vertical preparation: a new technique for analogical and digital impressions. J Clin Exp Dent. 2023; 15(7): e590–e593.
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Mario Imburgia, Angelo Canale, Davide Cortellini, Marco Maneschi, Claudio Martucci, Marco Valenti. Minimally invasive vertical preparation design for ceramic veneers Int J Esthet Dent. 2016;11(4):460-471.
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Loi I, Di Felice A. Biologically oriented preparation technique (BOPT): a new approach for prosthetic restoration of periodontically healthy teeth. Eur J Esthet Dent. 2013;8(1):10-23.