How much higher should marginal ridges be carved compared to proximal teeth?

The recommended height for marginal ridges in dental restorations is generally about 1 mm higher than the proximal teeth. This elevation is crucial for several reasons. First, the marginal ridges play a vital role in occlusion and the overall stability of the dental arch. By being slightly higher than the adjacent proximal surfaces of the adjacent teeth, marginal ridges help maintain proper interdigitation during chewing, which enhances function.

Additionally, having the marginal ridges elevated helps prevent food impaction, which can lead to caries or periodontal issues if food is trapped between the teeth. This slight elevation is also essential for the integrity of the restorative material and helps provide adequate strength to the restoration while mimicking the natural anatomy of the tooth.

The other options do not align with the established standard for dental restorations. Distances greater than 1 mm, such as 2 mm or 3 mm, might interfere with occlusal contacts, while 0.5 mm may not provide sufficient elevation to fulfill the functional requirements of the marginal ridges. Thus, the choice of 1 mm reflects a widely accepted clinical guideline in restorative dentistry.