Resin composite class I restorations: a 54-month randomized clinical trial

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Restorative Dentistry
• Clinical Trials

Background:

• Evaluating the long-term clinical performance of resin composites is crucial for effective restorative treatments.
• Nanofilled and nanohybrid composites offer potential advantages in aesthetics and mechanical properties for posterior restorations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the 54-month clinical performance of nanofilled (Filtek Z350) and nanohybrid (Esthet-X) resin composites in Class I occlusal restorations.
• To compare these materials against a microhybrid control (Filtek Z250) using modified US Public Health Service criteria.

Main Methods:

• A longitudinal randomized clinical trial involving 41 adolescents with Class I posterior tooth restorations.
• Restorations were evaluated at baseline and at 6, 12, 30, and 54 months using standardized criteria.
• Statistical analysis included McNemar and Friedman tests.

Main Results:

• Five restorations failed during the 54-month follow-up.
• Unacceptable scores for anatomic form and marginal adaptation were observed in one Esthet-X, two Filtek Z350, and two Filtek Z250 restorations.
• Significant differences in marginal adaptation and roughness were noted over time and between materials, though all remained clinically acceptable.

Conclusions:

• Both nanofilled and nanohybrid resin composites exhibited acceptable clinical performance for Class I restorations over 54 months.
• Further long-term studies are warranted to fully elucidate the durability and behavior of these dental restorative materials.