A cavity preparation that includes the mesial incisal angle of a maxillary central incisor is classified as what type?

The classification of cavity preparations is based on the specific areas of the teeth that are affected by decay or require restoration. A cavity preparation that involves the mesial incisal angle of a maxillary central incisor falls under Class IV.

Class IV restorations specifically refer to preparations that include both the proximal surfaces (mesial or distal) and the incisal edge of anterior teeth (e.g., incisors and canines). This classification is relevant particularly for restorations that are intended to restore damage or decay on these surfaces, which is the case with the mesial incisal angle of a maxillary central incisor.

Understanding these classifications is essential for both diagnosis and treatment planning in dentistry. In contrast to Class III restorations, which affect the proximal surfaces of anterior teeth without involving the incisal edge, or Class II restorations that are used for posterior teeth, Class IV is distinctive due to its involvement of both the incisal edge and the proximal surface. Class V deals with cavities located at the gingival third of the facial or lingual surfaces of teeth, which further differentiates it from Class IV. Thus, the specific mention of the mesial incisal angle directly leads to the correct classification as Class IV.