Critical appraisal. To bevel or not in anterior composites

Composites are widely used for the functional and esthetic restorations of anterior teeth. The placement of a cavosurface margin bevel on the enamel margins of anterior composite preparations traditionally has been recommended to enhance retention and for esthetic reasons, as bevels result in a gradual transition between the restoration and the tooth. However, advances in adhesive and composite technology, as well as careful composite selection and application techniques, have made it possible to place adequate anterior composites without a bevel. Elimination of bevels results in more conservative cavity preparations, a simpler technique, a reduced restored surface area, and the preservation of tooth structure when the restoration is replaced. This Critical Appraisal summarizes clinical reviews and laboratory publications related to the influence of cavity preparation and, more specifically, cavosurface bevels on the performance of anterior composite restorations.