Influence of water on the transverse strength of posterior composite resins

In an attempt to evaluate the influence of water on the mechanical properties of composite resin, the transverse strengths of 15 commercially available composites were determined in water at 37 degrees C and compared with the strength measured in air after storage in water for periods of 1 day to 3 months. Some of the composites, including two which contained a blend filler, showed remarkable reduction of transverse strength when measured in air, according to the procedures specified in ISO 4049, in comparison with transverse strength measured in water. The change of water content in the material can predominantly affect the mechanical behavior of composite resin.