No restorative material is permanent and with each replacement, the tooth becomes weaker, and the new restoration will have a shorter life.

• A. False
• B. Partly true
• C. Uncertain
• D. True

Answer: (D)

The fundamental idea is that restorations are not permanent and each replacement tends to weaken the tooth, reducing how long the new restoration will last. Even with durable materials, tooth structure is progressively removed to access the decay or damage, creating more stress points and a higher risk of fracture or marginal breakdown. The remaining tooth becomes more brittle, and the likelihood of complications such as secondary caries or restoration debonding increases, so the expected lifespan of subsequent restorations tends to shorten. That’s why, in practice, even the best materials don’t guarantee endless longevity, and planning focuses on preserving tooth structure and using techniques that maximize the chance of long-term success.