Two-year clinical evaluation of a posterior resin composite using a fourth- and fifth-generation bonding agent

This study evaluated the clinical performance of a posterior resin composite used with a fourth- and fifth-generation bonding agent. Sixty-two Class I and II restorations were placed with half the restorations restored with Gluma Solid Bond (a fourth-generation bonding system, or total etch two-step system) and the other half restored with Gluma Comfort Bond and Desensitizer (a fifth-generation bonding system, or total etch one-step system). Solitaire 2 was used as the restorative material for all restorations. The bonding systems and resin composite were used according to the manufacturer's instructions and all procedures were performed with rubber dam isolation. All restorations were evaluated at baseline, six months and one and two years. A modified USPHS scale was used to evaluate the restorations for marginal discoloration, recurrent caries, anatomic form, marginal adaptation and proximal contact. Statistical analysis revealed that at two years no significant differences were found between the two bonding agents. Overall, Solitaire 2 performed well clinically whether Gluma Solid Bond or Gluma Comfort Bond and Desensitizer was used. It was thus concluded that Solitaire 2 functions successfully when used as a posterior restorative material for at least two years.