Restoring the severely compromised molar through adhesive bonding of amalgam to dentin.

Resin adhesive systems capable of bonding conventional amalgam to dentin, enamel, and cast restorations are now available. This article describes a case in which bonded amalgam was used to create a "vital core," permitting preservation of vitality during restoration of a molar where deep caries had encroached on the pulp. Without use of adhesive resin, the restoration would have required devitalization of the tooth, endodontic therapy, and fabrication of a crown retained by a post and core.