Microleakage in the sandwich technique

This study assessed the microleakage and if it was possible to reproduce the success that is seen in the oral cavity with properly placed "sandwich" restorations. Simulated Class V erosion lesions were prepared in extracted human molar teeth and restored using a Type III glass ionomer lining cement mixed mechanically at a high powder:liquid ratio of 3:1 or greater with resin composite laminated to it leaving cement exposed at the gingival margin. To update the technique for modern materials a dual cure glass ionomer lining cement was placed in a second series with resin composite laminated to it completely covering the gingival margin. The restorations were stored in water for two weeks before temperature cycled and immersed in dye. The results showed minimal leakage relative to most other published studies and that most leakage was related to the setting shrinkage of the resin composite.