Abstract
Abstract The proper tooth preparation should not damage the neighboring tooth surfaces. Accidental damage during teeth preparation is considered an important concern that dentists often face throughout restorative procedures. The purpose of the following study is to evaluate the amount and frequency of accidental injury to the interproximal surface of nearby teeth, subsequent teeth preparation, Setting: among dental practioner in private dental laboratories in west of Libya. An example (n=80) of a working cast list used for crown and bridgework was sampled from Alzendah and Hi-Tech dental commercial laboratories in west of Tripoli Libya. Tooth surfaces were examined on master casts by direct vision by one observer. Statistics were investigated by using SPSS. A high incidence of iatrogenic injury to the mesial and distal surfaces of adjoining teeth where mesial 78% and 73% on distal surface, (p<0.044) was detected, more common in molar teeth (67%) than anterior teeth (45%). The most common accidental damage was abrasion and nick, then abrasion. The prevalence of injury was established to be higher in general dental practitioners and was significantly associated with mainly mesial surface, mostly in the middle third of the proximal surface (45%). More injuries were observed in the maxilla in comparison to the mandible. A high rate of accidental damage to the neighboring teeth has been present through crown and restorative work, middle-third of the tooth with mild abrasions more risk location and surfaces. The present research work places of interest the need for dentists to exercise more with preparations and casts making.