Root surface marginal microleakage of composites: comparison of Cavosurface finishes

The effect on microleakage of a modification of the cavosurface finish was evaluated using extracted thermalcycled teeth. Composite resin was placed in cavity preparations on root surfaces of teeth and finished to leave either a flash of material on the margin or finished flush to the margin. The teeth were thermalcycled for 10 days at 5 and 55 degrees C. The teeth were evaluated for microleakage using the silver nitrate staining procedure. Results showed a significant decrease in the amount of microleakage on the margins finished leaving a flash of composite resin. Clinical trials placing these restorations on root surfaces will be necessary to evaluate the impact on the periodontal health.