Clinical evaluation of posterior composite restorations in endodontically treated teeth

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the two year clinical performance of posterior composite restorations in endodontically treated premolars and molars using a hybrid composite (Filtek Z-250, 3M ESPE) and a total etch bonding system (Single Bond, 3M ESPE).

Thirty-nine class II restorations in endodontically treated premolars (n=11) and molars (n=28) of 27 patients (14 female, 13 male, mean age 36.51) in 16 maxillar and 23 mandibular teeth were placed by one operator. Restorations were evaluated by two experienced investigators at baseline, 12 months, and 24 months according to the modified United States Public Health Service (USPHS) criteria that included retention, color match, marginal discoloration, secondary caries, anatomic form, marginal adaptation, and surface texture. All restorations were able to be evaluated at baseline, 12 months, and 24 months.

Paired samples t-test showed only marginal discoloration showed a statistically significant difference (p<0.05) at the end of 24 months, and no other significant differences were observed for the other variables examined over the duration of the study. None of the restored teeth showed periapical pathology at the end of 24 months.

At two years, limited deterioration in marginal discoloration was detected. The clinical performance of posterior composite restorations in endodontically treated teeth using Filtek Z250 was found clinically acceptable after two years.