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Polymerization shrinkage of flowable resin-based restorative materials
Minos M Stavridakis1, Didier Dietschi, Ivo Krejci
1Division of Cariology and Endodontology, School of Dentistry, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland. minosstavridakis@yahoo.com
Operative Dentistry
|March 16, 2005
Summary
This study evaluated polymerization shrinkage in 22 flowable resin composites, finding significant variations in displacement and forces. Few materials exhibited low shrinkage, similar to hybrid composites.
Area of Science:
- Dental Materials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Biomaterials Engineering
Background:
- Polymerization shrinkage in dental restorative materials can lead to adverse clinical outcomes.
- Flowable resin composites offer handling advantages but their shrinkage behavior requires thorough investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To measure and compare linear polymerization displacement and polymerization forces of 22 flowable resin-based restorative materials.
- To identify materials with minimal shrinkage and analyze shrinkage kinetics.
Main Methods:
- Utilized custom devices to measure linear polymerization displacement and forces for 22 flowable resin materials.
- Materials were light-cured for 60 seconds, with properties measured for 180 seconds.
- Statistical analysis included ANOVA, Tukey's HSD test, and simple linear regression.
Main Results:
- A broad range of linear polymerization displacement (26.61–80.74 microns) and polymerization forces (3.23–7.48 kg) were observed.
- Significant differences existed among materials; only Freedom, Glacier, and Photo SC showed low values comparable to hybrid composites.
- Shrinkage kinetics followed an exponential growth pattern, with forces slightly delayed compared to displacement.
Conclusions:
- Flowable resin composites exhibit highly variable polymerization shrinkage, impacting clinical performance.
- Materials like Freedom, Glacier, and Photo SC are recommended for reduced shrinkage stress.
- Further research into shrinkage kinetics and material correlation is warranted.
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