The text is beautifully presented and rendered with over 2,000 coloured retouched clinical photos. In keeping with the aesthetic and cosmetic themes, chapter titles feature renaissance statues with quotes from Greek philosophers incorporated into the text.

It consists of 14 chapters covering the majority of materials, procedures and technique relating to the book's title. The format essentially splits each chapter into two sections. The first outlines a history and introduction of each material or technique with evidence-based applications and recent advances, designed to enhance one's understanding of the topic. The second section titled 'Clinical Technique' deals with the clinical applications, including more advanced cosmetic techniques, laid out with detailed photographs of various cases. This provides a step-by-step guide with each picture illustrating a different stage in the procedure.

I find much of the first section contains a little too much text and detail on the science behind the subject. Though interesting, unless you have an accompanying background in dental materials, you will find the majority of text confusing and tedious. Likewise the laboratory stages and accompanying pictures included in many of the chapters were longwinded. The second section I feel helps provide a greater understanding of the subject and by relating it to range of clinical scenarios. The numbered pictures are accompanied by a concise description of each stage beginning with initial patient presentation through treatment planning to final outcome.

I enjoyed the clinical topics dealing with composite, impression techniques and provisionalisation, which were informative and relevant for any GDP looking to update their knowledge or try their hand at more complex dentistry. More technically demanding topics on CADCAM, implantology and periodontal plastic surgery provided interesting case photographs but were of little relevance unless experienced in these subjects. They even managed to squeeze in a chapter on photography so you can practise showing off those pristine crowns!

As a Foundation Dentist with limited experience of the text's subject, I feel it would be better suited for an individual with special interest in cosmetic and restorative dentistry. The level of detailed and range of topics covered within in justified within the price tag. Though several of the chapters provide examples of a variety of techniques suitable for a trainee, the majority of information is too complex and therefore unsuitable. The scope of background information and intricacy of procedures would be more appreciated and better implemented by someone in specialist practice.