Longevity of new hybrid restorative materials in class III cavities

The aim of this study was to evaluate the durability of two new tooth-colored restorative materials, a polyacid-modified resin composite (compomer) and a resin-modified glass ionomer cement. In an intra-individual comparison with a resin composite, the materials were studied during a 5-yr period. In 50 patients, 154 large class III restorations were placed. Most patients received one of each of the three materials. The restorations were evaluated by modified United States Public Health Service (USPHS) criteria. Of the 144 restorations evaluated, 15 were found unacceptable. No significant differences were seen between the materials concerning recurrent caries incidence. The resin composite showed a significantly better color match. No difference was found between resin composite fillings in enamel- or total-etched cavities. Significantly higher surface roughness was found in the aged resin-modified glass ionomer cement restorations. Fracture of the incisal enamel corner was observed adjacent to 10 restorations. None of the three total-etch techniques resulted in postoperative sensitivity or loss of vitality. All the restorative techniques showed a low failure rate during the 5-yr follow-up.