What should be done to ensure proper retention of a restoration?

Increasing the surface area of the preparation is essential for proper retention of a restoration because it provides a larger area for the adhesive interface between the restoration and the tooth structure. A larger surface area enhances the mechanical retention by allowing more bonding material to adhere to the tooth, which can significantly improve the strength and stability of the restoration.

When preparing a tooth for a restoration, the design of the preparation plays a crucial role in how securely the restoration will be held in place. For instance, a wider preparation can create undercuts that enhance retention through mechanical interlocking. Increasing surface area also aids in the distribution of forces during function, reducing the susceptibility of the restoration to dislodgment.

Although methods such as using bonding agents can also contribute to retention, the fundamental principle of maximizing the surface area is critical and often provides a more reliable foundation for establishing retention for crowns or other types of restorations. Balancing this aspect with other factors, such as occlusion and reduction, is key to achieving optimal outcomes in restorative dentistry.