title: The placement of bases beneath amalgam restorations: review of literature and recommendations for use.
abstract: On the basis of the literature, it can be concluded that there are no absolute rules regarding the placement of bases under amalgam restorations. The following recommendations are offered: A base should not be used unless its use is indicated clearly. When a base is indicated, it should be used with the minimum thickness necessary to achieve the desired result. Lost dentin should not be replaced with a base in an attempt to simulate an ideal preparation. A stronger base should not be placed over a weaker base, for strength. The entire base is only as strong as the weakest component. Covering the entire pulpal floor with a base should be avoided. Sound dentin surrounding the base should be left so that the amalgam restoration is supported by dentin as much as possible.
authors.forename: J W
authors.initials: JW
authors.lastname: Robbins
mesh_terms: D002126:Calcium Hydroxide; D003723:Dental Amalgam; D003736:Dental Cavity Lining; D003738:Dental Cements; D003807:Dentin Sensitivity / Q000517:prevention & control; D006358:Hot Temperature; D006801:Humans; D008903:Minerals; D015035:Zinc Oxide-Eugenol Cement; D015036:Zinc Phosphate Cement
chemical_list: D003738:Dental Cements; D008903:Minerals; D015035:Zinc Oxide-Eugenol Cement; C025702:Dycal; D015036:Zinc Phosphate Cement; D003723:Dental Amalgam; D002126:Calcium Hydroxide