Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 19, 2026
Shrinkage of Dental Composite in Simulated Cavity Measured with Digital Image Correlation
Published on: July 21, 2014
Two-year clinical evaluation of direct and indirect composite restorations in posterior teeth
A Scheibenbogen-Fuchsbrunner1, J Manhart, L Kremers
1School of Dentistry, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany.
Statement Of Problem:
Few long-term clinical studies have reported data of modern posterior composites as direct and indirect restorations.
Purpose:
This prospective, long-term clinical trial (1) evaluated direct and indirect composite restorations for clinical acceptability as posterior restoratives in single or multisurface carious teeth and (2) provided a survey on the 2-year results.
Material And Methods:
Nine dental students placed 88 composite restorations (Tetric, blend-a-lux, Pertac-Hybrid Unifil), 43 direct composite restorations and 45 indirect inlays, under the supervision of an experienced dentist. The first clinical evaluation was performed 11 to 13 months after placement by 2 other experienced dentists, using modified USPHS criteria. A second follow-up of 60 restorations took place within 20 to 26 months after placement.
Results:
A total of 93% of indirect and 90% of direct composite restorations were assessed to be clinically excellent or acceptable. Two restorations (1 indirect composite inlay and 1 margin of a direct composite restoration) failed during the second year because of fracture. Indirect inlays demonstrated a significantly better "anatomic form of the surface" than direct composite restorations. Premolars revealed a significantly better margin integrity and postoperative symptoms than molars.
Conclusion:
Posterior composite restorations provided a satisfactory clinical performance over a 2-year period when placed by relatively inexperienced but supervised students.
