Crafting Masterpieces – A Journey in Composite Veneering

Day 2 of our 6 Tooth Composite Veneer Workshop took participants on a deeper dive into the artistry and science of creating lifelike composite restorations.
Dr. Dennis Hartlieb
Day 2 of our 6 Tooth Composite Veneer Workshop took participants on a deeper dive into the artistry and science of creating lifelike composite restorations. With a mix of theory, hands-on practice, and lively discussions, the day was a perfect balance of learning and execution.
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Foundations and Materials

We began the day by reviewing foundational concepts from Day 1, focusing on the critical importance of material selection. Participants learned about the distinct characteristics of composite materials:

  • Micro Hybrids: High strength but lower polishability.
  • Nano Fills: Excellent polishability with moderate strength.
  • Micro Fills: Unmatched polishability but require structural support.

This session included a detailed explanation of layering techniques and the strategic use of opaques and tints to block unwanted shine-through and add natural effects.
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Dentin Layers and Beyond

Hands-on exercises started with participants building the dentin layer for their central incisors. They used Cosmedent’s A1 Nanofill plus for its opacity and practiced:

  • Integrating Renamel Creative Color opaques to block shine-through.
  • Adding Creative Color tints like white, light brown, and gray to enhance translucency, chroma and incisal effects.

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A short presentation followed, highlighting:

  • Tooth morphology, including the average dimensions of central incisors.
  • The role of line angles in light reflection and tooth aesthetics.
  • This set the stage for the next layer—enamel.

The Enamel Layer

The morning session concluded with the hands-on technique of placing and manipulating the enamel layer for the maxillary central incisors. An achromatic translucent microfill composite was placed in the incisal 1/3rd of the tooth, then the final enamel layer - Cosmedent’s Renamel B Zero was placed and contoured to provide full shape and contour to the central incisors. 
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Shaping Laterals and Canines

After lunch, the focus shifted to lateral incisors and canines. Each tooth’s unique anatomy was emphasized:

Laterals: TAn average size of 9.5 mm long and about 6.5 mm wide was quoted from research. Facial planes and line angles were reviewed, with an emphasis on the mesial gingival facial wall. The triangular in shape of the mesial wall helps create natural esthetics with delicate contoursfor the maxillary lateral incisor.

Canines: The maxillary canines equal the length of the central incisors but are slightly more narrow ~ generally about 7.5 mm. The importance of the transverse ridge was discussed and the importance of ‘hiding’ the distal facial wall of the canine from the facial view. The mesial gingival facial wall tends to be more Ttrapezoidal with pronounced gingival embrasures for natural aesthetics.
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Participants repeated the layering process, progressing from dentin layers to opaques, tints, and finally, enamel layers. Special attention was given to:

  • Maintaining the integrity of interproximal spaces.
  • Achieving seamless transitions between composite and natural tooth structures.

The Art of Contour

""Contour is what separates teeth that look great from teeth that don’t. Surface texture is just a bonus.""
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Participants practiced shaping and polishing their veneers to mimic natural tooth anatomy, ensuring that each restoration reflected light beautifully and appeared lifelike.

The Final Polish

By the end of the day, the participants had transformed their practice models into works of art. Each restoration demonstrated the mastery of:

  • Layering techniques for natural aesthetics.
  • Polishing to create a mirror-like finish.
  • Attention to detail in shaping and contouring.

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Reflecting on Day 2

The second day of the workshop was not just about learning new skills—it was about refining techniques and building confidence. Watching the participants’ growth was truly inspiring.

As we concluded, it was clear that everyone left with the tools and knowledge to elevate their practice and create exceptional results for their patients.

Thank you to everyone who joined us on this journey. I can’t wait to see the amazing transformations you’ll achieve in your own practices.

Yours for better dentistry,
Dennis Hartlieb, DDS, AAACD
Co-Founder, Dental Online Training