Why Deep Composite Restorations Fail: Shrinkage, Curing & Microleakage - Bonding & Beer - Ep. 51

Composite shrinkage is unavoidable, but improper curing in deep restorations can increase the risk of poor bonding, gap formation, and microleakage.In this episode of Bonding and Beer, Rolando breaks down the Low Shrinkage Technique and explains why light-curing distance matters, how curing intensity can vary, and why a composite that feels hard may not necessarily be fully polymerized.We discuss how dual-cured adhesives and restorative materials can help reduce dependence on light activation in deep areas of the preparation, along with practical ways to improve curing predictability and help minimize microleakage.In this episode, we discuss:• Composite polymerization shrinkage• Microleakage and secondary caries• Light-curing distance and intensity• Depth of cure• Using a radiometer to check curing-light output• Dual-cure materials in deep restorations• The Low Shrinkage TechniqueBonding and Beer is a dental podcast, hosted by Dr. Rolando Nuñez , where adhesive restorative dentistry meets craft beer reviews 🎙️ Join Ro on the 2nd Tuesday of every month as he cracks open a new beer and dives into the world of dental bonding, sharing insights and answering your questions.Visit our website! It's the perfect place to submit questions, suggestions, and learn more about the show: https://info.bisco.com/bonding-and-beer-landing Follow us on Instagram to stay updated with everything Bonding and Beer!Check out the video version of the Podcast on YouTube and subscribe! Have a question for Rolando? Submit it to [email protected] to have your question answered on the show!Powered by BISCO

Are 3D-printed dental resins ready for permanent restorations, or does the technology still have some work to do?Welcome to Episode 50 of Bonding and Beer! This week, Dr. Rolando Nuñez sits down with Dr. Jeff Trembley to discuss one of the fastest evolving technologies in restorative dentistry: 3D-printed resins. Dr. Trembley is an expert on the subject and has been perfecting his craft with 3D-printed resins since 2018. He explains how far this technology has come and breaks down what clinicians need to know before incorporating 3D-printed resins into their practice.In this episode, we discuss:- The Evolution of Dental 3D Printing- 3D-Printed vs. Milled Restorations- Strength, Materials & Clinical Success- The Limitations of 3D-Printed Resins- The Future of 3D Printing in DentistryWhether you’re already using a dental 3D printer or just starting to explore the technology, this conversation will help you better understand its current capabilities, limitations, and potential role in your practice.Huge shout out to Dr. Jeff Trembley for coming on the podcast! Follow Dr. Trembley: https://www.instagram.com/jftrembley/?hl=enCheck out Smile on Nashville: https://smileonnashville.com/Dr. Trembley's 3D Printed Resin Course: https://www.helpfuldentist.com/beersBonding and Beer is a dental podcast, hosted by Dr. Rolando Nuñez , where adhesive restorative dentistry meets craft beer reviews 🎙️ Join Ro on the 2nd Tuesday of every month as he cracks open a new beer and dives into the world of dental bonding, sharing insights and answering your questions.Visit our website! It's the perfect place to submit questions, suggestions, and learn more about the show: https://info.bisco.com/bonding-and-beer-landing Follow us on Instagram to stay updated with everything Bonding and Beer!Check out the video version of the Podcast on YouTube and subscribe! Have a question for Rolando? Submit it to [email protected] to have your question answered on the show!Powered by BISCO

What does it really mean when a dental material is called biocompatible and does that mean it can’t be toxic?In Episode 49 of Bonding and Beer, Rolando Nuñez breaks down the difference between toxicity and biocompatibility, why those terms are often confused, and what they actually mean in clinical dentistry.In this episode, we discuss: - What biocompatibility means in dentistry - How toxicity is different from biocompatibility - Why pulpal health and direct pulp contact matter - Why resin-based materials can show cytotoxicity in laboratory studies - The difference between in vitro findings and clinical performance - How polymerization, technique, and case selection can influence outcomes - Why understanding a material’s proper indication is critical for clinical successJust because a material may demonstrate toxicity under certain experimental conditions does not automatically mean it is unsafe or inappropriate for clinical use. Understanding how the material is intended to be used, and following the proper clinical protocol is essential when interpreting the research.Want to learn more? Read BISCO's blog on TheraCal LC and toxicity: https://www.bisco.com/blog/adhesion/is-theracal-lc-toxic-to-pulp-heres-what-the-science-actually-shows/Bonding and Beer is a dental podcast, hosted by Dr. Rolando Nuñez , where adhesive restorative dentistry meets craft beer reviews 🎙️ Join Ro on the 2nd Tuesday of every month as he cracks open a new beer and dives into the world of dental bonding, sharing insights and answering your questions.Visit our website! It's the perfect place to submit questions, suggestions, and learn more about the show: https://info.bisco.com/bonding-and-beer-landing Follow us on Instagram to stay updated with everything Bonding and Beer!Check out the video version of the Podcast on YouTube and subscribe! Have a question for Rolando? Submit it to [email protected] to have your question answered on the show!Powered by BISCO

How much should scientific literature actually influence your clinical decisions—and how do you know which dental research to trust?In Episode 48 of Bonding & Beer, Dr. Rolando Nuñez explores how scientific literature shapes clinical decision-making in dentistry, from understanding evidence-based dentistry to recognizing the important differences between in vitro research and clinical studies.With new research constantly being published, and studies sometimes reaching conflicting conclusions, knowing how to evaluate the evidence can be just as important as finding it in the first place.In this episode, we discuss:• How scientific literature influences everyday clinical decisions• What evidence-based dentistry really means• In vitro research vs. clinical studies—and why the difference matters• How to approach conflicting research and potentially misleading narratives• What dentists should look for when evaluating a clinical study• Why one study rarely tells the entire story• How evidence, clinical expertise, and patient circumstances work together• Why safety and efficacy should remain at the center of material selectionThe key takeaway? Evidence-based clinical decision-making isn't about finding one article that supports a conclusion. It's about identifying the clinical question, searching the literature, critically evaluating the evidence, applying it alongside your clinical expertise and the patient's circumstances, and evaluating the outcome.Want to put this into practice?Visit the BISCO website: https://hubs.li/Q04bcX4Q0 and find a product you want to learn more about. Explore the educational resources available for that product, then take a closer look at the scientific references behind those resources.Bonding and Beer is a dental podcast, hosted by Dr. Rolando Nuñez , where adhesive restorative dentistry meets craft beer reviews 🎙️ Join Ro on the 2nd Tuesday of every month as he cracks open a new beer and dives into the world of dental bonding, sharing insights and answering your questions.Visit our website! It's the perfect place to submit questions, suggestions, and learn more about the show: https://info.bisco.com/bonding-and-beer-landing Follow us on Instagram to stay updated with everything Bonding and Beer!Check out the video version of the Podcast on YouTube and subscribe! Have a question for Rolando? Submit it to [email protected] to have your question answered on the show!Powered by BISCO

In Episode 47 of Bonding & Beer, Rolando Nunez breaks down 3 key characteristics that make an adhesive a good adhesive: convenience, compatibility, and water content.When it comes to dental adhesives and universal bonding agents, convenience doesn't always mean better performance. Compatibility can determine whether your adhesive works predictably with other dental materials. And water content can influence both the chemistry of the adhesive and its resistance to hydrolytic degradation over time.In this episode, we discuss• Convenience in dental adhesives - What makes an adhesive easy to use? What are the tradeoffs?• Adhesive compatibility - Open architecture and closed architecture adhesives• Water content in dental adhesives - Why do dental adhesives contain water and why does water content matter?• Examples of universal adhesives and dental boding agents that we believe nail the most important aspects of an adhesive. Bonding and Beer is a dental podcast, hosted by Dr. Rolando Nuñez , where adhesive restorative dentistry meets craft beer reviews 🎙️ Join Ro on the 2nd Tuesday of every month as he cracks open a new beer and dives into the world of dental bonding, sharing insights and answering your questions.Visit our website! It's the perfect place to submit questions, suggestions, and learn more about the show: https://info.bisco.com/bonding-and-beer-landing Follow us on Instagram to stay updated with everything Bonding and Beer!Check out the video version of the Podcast on YouTube and subscribe! Have a question for Rolando? Submit it to [email protected] to have your question answered on the show!Powered by BISCO

In Episode 45 of Bonding & Beer, Rolando Nunez breaks down the science behind chemical bonding and why it's one of the most important factors in achieving predictable, long-lasting restorations. From enamel and dentin bonding to indirect restorations like zirconia, lithium disilicate (e.max), metal, and composite, you'll learn how different functional monomers create durable chemical adhesion, and why choosing the right chemistry matters.In this episode, we discuss• What chemical interaction is and why it's essential for successful adhesive dentistry• The differences between monomers like PENTA, BPDM, GPDM, and why MDP stands in a league of its own• When to use MDP, silane, or dedicated primers for the most predictable results on zirconia, glass ceramics, metal, composite, and 3D printed resins • Practical clinical tips to improve the longevity of your direct and indirect restorationsBonding and Beer is a dental podcast, hosted by Dr. Rolando Nuñez , where adhesive restorative dentistry meets craft beer reviews 🎙️ Join Ro on the 2nd Tuesday of every month as he cracks open a new beer and dives into the world of dental bonding, sharing insights and answering your questions.Visit our website! It's the perfect place to submit questions, suggestions, and learn more about the show: https://info.bisco.com/bonding-and-beer-landing Follow us on Instagram to stay updated with everything Bonding and Beer!Check out the video version of the Podcast on YouTube and subscribe! Have a question for Rolando? Submit it to [email protected] to have your question answered on the show!Powered by BISCO

In this episode of Bonding & Beer, we continue our conversation on mechanical retention by shifting our focus from the restoration to the tooth structure itself. We break down why mechanical retention is one of the most important factors in achieving predictable, long-lasting bonds, and why understanding the differences between enamel and dentin can make or break your restorative success. From the history of acid etching to modern techniques like sandblasting and self-etching, we explore how proper surface preparation creates the foundation for optimized bonding.In this episode, we discuss:• What mechanical retention really is• Why mechanical retention is essential for predictable bonding• The differences between enamel and dentin as bonding substrates• Creating proper mechanical retention with: phosphoric acid etching, sandblasting, and self-etch techniquesHow serious are you about creating mechanical retention? Let us know if the comments!Bonding and Beer is a dental podcast, hosted by Dr. Rolando Nuñez , where adhesive restorative dentistry meets craft beer reviews 🎙️ Join Ro on the 2nd Tuesday of every month as he cracks open a new beer and dives into the world of dental bonding, sharing insights and answering your questions.Visit our website! It's the perfect place to submit questions, suggestions, and learn more about the show: https://info.bisco.com/bonding-and-beer-landing Follow us on Instagram to stay updated with everything Bonding and Beer!Check out the video version of the Podcast on YouTube and subscribe! Have a question for Rolando? Submit it to [email protected] to have your question answered on the show!Powered by BISCO

In Episode 44, Rolando Nuñez takes a closer look at one of the most fundamental (and often overlooked) principles of adhesive dentistry: mechanical retention. With today's advanced adhesives and primers, it's easy to focus entirely on chemistry. But even the best bonding systems depend on proper surface preparation to achieve predictable, long-lasting results. In this episode, we discuss why mechanical retention still matters, how it impacts bond strength, and the critical role it plays when bonding to today's most common restorative materials.In this episode we discuss:• What mechanical retention is and why it matters• How hydrofluoric acid etching and sandblasting create retention• Common mistakes that can weaken restorations• How to properly prepare the top 4 dental substrates for optimal bondingBonding and Beer is a dental podcast, hosted by Dr. Rolando Nuñez , where adhesive restorative dentistry meets craft beer reviews 🎙️ Join Ro on the 2nd Tuesday of every month as he cracks open a new beer and dives into the world of dental bonding, sharing insights and answering your questions.Visit our website! It's the perfect place to submit questions, suggestions, and learn more about the show: https://info.bisco.com/bonding-and-beer-landing Follow us on Instagram to stay updated with everything Bonding and Beer!Check out the video version of the Podcast on YouTube and subscribe! Have a question for Rolando? Submit it to [email protected] to have your question answered on the show!Powered by BISCO

Episode 43 of Bonding and Beer is a special tribute to the late Dr. Suh. He was a visionary whose impact on restorative dentistry and dental bonding continues to shape the profession today. Rolando reflects on his personal relationship with Dr. Suh, dating back to 1997, and shares stories that highlight the passion, innovation, and leadership that defined his life and career.In this episode, we discuss:• Dr. Suh’s journey and history in chemistry• His revolutionary vision for the future of dental bonding• How his chemistry background helped create groundbreaking restorative materials• The leadership philosophy that shaped BISCO into the company it is today• Why his influence continues to inspire clinicians, educators, and innovators around the worldBonding and Beer is a dental podcast, hosted by Dr. Rolando Nuñez , where adhesive restorative dentistry meets craft beer reviews 🎙️ Join Ro on the 2nd Tuesday of every month as he cracks open a new beer and dives into the world of dental bonding, sharing insights and answering your questions.Visit our website! It's the perfect place to submit questions, suggestions, and learn more about the show: https://info.bisco.com/bonding-and-beer-landing Follow us on Instagram to stay updated with everything Bonding and Beer!Check out the video version of the Podcast on YouTube and subscribe! Have a question for Rolando? Submit it to [email protected] to have your question answered on the show!Powered by BISCO

Feeling overwhelmed by all the dental materials on the market? You’re not alone. In Episode 42 of Bonding & Beer, Dr. Rolando Nuñez breaks down the confusion and gives you a simple, practical framework for choosing the right materials. No more chasing trends or getting lost in endless options. We focus on the foundation of restorative dentistry: adhesives, cements, and composites, and explain how mastering these core materials can lead to more predictable, consistent clinical outcomes.In Episode 42 we cover the essential materials every practice needs: • Adhesives • Cements • CompositesAnd Dr. Nuñez gives his go-to product recommendations.Bonding and Beer is a dental podcast, hosted by Dr. Rolando Nuñez , where adhesive restorative dentistry meets craft beer reviews 🎙️ Join Ro on the 2nd Tuesday of every month as he cracks open a new beer and dives into the world of dental bonding, sharing insights and answering your questions.Visit our website! It's the perfect place to submit questions, suggestions, and learn more about the show: https://info.bisco.com/bonding-and-beer-landing Follow us on Instagram to stay updated with everything Bonding and Beer!Check out the video version of the Podcast on YouTube and subscribe! Have a question for Rolando? Submit it to [email protected] to have your question answered on the show!Powered by BISCO