Dentinal Exposure Resulting From Ball Rest Seat Preparations on Mandibular Canines

Twenty extracted mandibular canine teeth were prepared with lingual ball rest seats. The preparations were placed in the area with the greatest horizontal component. The depth of tooth penetration was determined by the establishment of a positive seat. In all specimens, the enamel was penetrated and the dentin exposed. The authors note that, when ball rests are placed in mandibular canines, one should assume dentin exposure. The authors also recommend that suitable restorations be placed on a routine basis.