Semidirect posterior composite restorations with a flexible die technique: A case series

Direct and semi-direct resin composite restoration in large cavity preparations: analysis of dentin bond strength stability and bottom/top microhardness ratio in a cavity model

To evaluate the influence of the restorative approach and aging time on dentin bond strength (BS), failure mode (FM), and bottom/top microhardness ratio (B/T) in a large dentin cavity model. A total of 102 bovine incisors were used to produce models of conical dentin cavities (4.0 mm thickness × 4.8 mm top diameter × 2.8 mm bottom diameter), which were restored using semi-direct filling (SDF) (Filtek™ Z250 XT + Scotchbond™ Universal/RelyX™ Ultimate luting system), direct bulk filling (DBF) (Filtek™ One Bulk Fill), and direct incremental filling (DIF) (Filtek™ Z250 XT) techniques. B/T, BS, and FM (n = 17) were analyzed in a microhardness tester, a universal testing machine, and a stereomicroscope, respectively, after 24 h and 6 months of water storage. BS and B/T data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA/Tukey post-hoc test (p < 0.05), while FM data were analyzed descriptively. There was a statistically significant difference in BS between the restorative techniques, and BS was influenced by aging time in the DBF and SDF groups. Mixed failure was predominant for the SDF technique in both aging times. There was no statistically significant difference in B/T among the restorative approaches regardless of the aging time (p > 0.05). Although all restorative approaches provided similar B/T, the semi-direct technique showed better performance on the material bond strength to dentine in large cavities.

Post-cure heat treatments influence on mechanical and optical properties of resin composites

This study evaluated the effect of post-cure heat treatment (PCHT) on the Knoop microhardness (KHN), degree of conversion (DC), color changes, and contrast ratio (CR) of four resin composites (RCs): Z100 (3M ESPE), Z350 XT (3M ESPE), Estelite Omega (Tokuyama) and Empress Direct (Ivoclar Vivadent). Specimens (12 × 1 mm) were prepared for each material (n = 10 / group). After curing, samples were subjected to PCHT for 10 min at 100°C or 170°C. Control group was maintained at room temperature (24°C) for the same time. The DC was analyzed by FT-NIR immediately and 24 h after the PCHT (n = 3 / group). KHN was analyzed 24 h after PCHT (n = 10 / group). According to CIEDE2000 (∆E00), color measurements were obtained immediately after curing, five minutes after PCHT, and after seven days of storage in water, coffee, and red wine. Data were analyzed by One and Two-Way ANOVA (p < 0.05). Z100, Z350, and Estelite Omega showed increases in KHN with increased temperature (p < 0.05). PCHT at 100°C and 170°C led to a higher DC of all RCs (p < 0.05). Initially, the PCHT lead to increased ∆E00 values (p < 0.05), which was decreased after immersion in coffee and wine (p < 0.05). Considering the effect of PCHT and staining solutions, lower color changes were observed in the thermally treated specimens (p < 0.05). Taken collectively, the results suggest the PCHT as an economical and practical alternative to enhance direct RC's properties in direct-indirect and indirect restorations.

Reshaping a retained deciduous canine with a semidirect composite resin veneer: A clinical report

The presence of a retained primary canine in an adult, although not frequent, affects esthetics. Choosing the optimal restorative treatment is a challenge. The present clinical report describes a treatment for tooth reshaping with a semidirect composite resin technique, achieving an excellent esthetic result. The treatment was successful at the 18-month follow-up.

Restoring Large Defect of Posterior Tooth by Indirect Composite Technique: A Case Report

Advances in adhesive dentistry have led to increased use of indirect restorations. In some situations, indirect composite techniques are more advantageous than direct composite filling techniques, such as establishing proper occlusal and interproximal anatomy, reducing polymerization shrinkage stress, and promoting the degree of conversion. This article presents a case about restoring the lower right first molar with extensive loss of tooth structure by the composite onlay to achieve a proper anatomic form and rehabilitate chewing function. This one-year clinical case encourages clinicians to manage large decay of posterior tooth conservatively. The given functional and esthetic outcomes demonstrate the promising applicability of the indirect composite technique.