Beveling a margin in Class IV restorations improves which aspect?

Beveling a margin in Class IV restorations improves which aspect?

• A. Marginal integrity
• B. Increases fracture risk
• C. Increases plaque accumulation
• D. Decreases esthetics

Answer: (A)

Beveling enamel margins in a Class IV restoration creates a larger, etched bonding area for the resin, which strengthens the marginal seal between tooth and restoration. This leads to improved marginal integrity because there is more enamel for bonding and a smoother transition at the margin, reducing microleakage. While beveling can also enhance esthetics by blending the restoration with natural enamel, the primary performance benefit is the better marginal seal. It does not increase fracture risk; it actually helps by avoiding a sharp, stress-concentrating edge. It also does not increase plaque buildup; well-finished margins tend to resist plaque better than rough margins.

Beveling enamel margins in a Class IV restoration creates a larger, etched bonding area for the resin, which strengthens the marginal seal between tooth and restoration. This leads to improved marginal integrity because there is more enamel for bonding and a smoother transition at the margin, reducing microleakage. While beveling can also enhance esthetics by blending the restoration with natural enamel, the primary performance benefit is the better marginal seal. It does not increase fracture risk; it actually helps by avoiding a sharp, stress-concentrating edge. It also does not increase plaque buildup; well-finished margins tend to resist plaque better than rough margins.