Provisional restorations (Part 1).

This chapter will emphasise the need to: 1) Provide a provisional restoration following tooth preparation to protect the pulp; secure positional stability, function and aesthetics; and maintain gingival health; 2) Consider using long-term provisional restorations to assess aesthetic, occlusal and periodontal changes before embarking on definitive restorations; 3) Distinguish between preparations for conventional and adhesive restorations when providing provisional restorations; 4) Determine in advance the type of provisional restorations and materials to be used, ideally, while treatment planning; 5) Be aware of materials for making provisional restorations and how to control potential hazards; and 6) Make provisional restorations to a high standard to ensure a predictable restorative outcome.