Repair versus replacement of failed restorations.

Detailed criteria are needed to establish what constitutes failures which call for replacement or repair of restorations. Many factors play a role in the selection of repair as an alternative to replacement of failed restorations, including the clinical condition, the restorative material involved, and cost/benefit assessments. The advantages of repair of localised defects include saving of tooth structure and increased longevity of restorations at a low cost.