DIRECT RESTORASI DENGAN TEKNIK STAMP OCCLUSAL PADA KARIES SUPERFICIAL YANG MELUAS

Abstract

Background: Occlusal caries in posterior teeth often progresses asymptomatically and may appear superficial despite extensive dentinal destruction. The occlusal stamp technique enables precise duplication of the original occlusal morphology, thereby minimizing finishing procedures, enhancing clinical efficiency, and achieving more accurate occlusion. Objective: To report the successful application of direct composite restoration using the occlusal stamp technique in a case of superficially extensive caries with intact occlusal morphology. Case Report: A 23-year-old female presented with a complaint of a cavity in tooth 46 without pain. Clinical examination revealed dentinal caries with preserved occlusal anatomy. The diagnosis was established as caries of dentine, and direct composite restoration using the occlusal stamp technique was planned. Case management: An occlusal stamp was fabricated using flowable composite applied to the tooth surface before cavity preparation. Following cavity preparation and caries removal, etching and bonding were performed, and composite was placed incrementally. The occlusal stamp was pressed onto the final increment after being covered with Teflon tape, thereby reproducing the occlusal anatomy with precision. Finishing and polishing were carried out to achieve a smooth restoration surface and optimal occlusal contact. One-week follow-up demonstrated a stable restoration with no complaints. Conclusion: The occlusal stamp technique proved effective in direct composite restoration of superficially extensive caries with intact occlusal morphology. This technique enhances anatomical accuracy, reduces post-restoration adjustments, and improves clinical efficiency. It may serve as a superior alternative in similar cases.