[Biological testing and clinical assessment of composite restorations]

The vital-microscopic acute pulp test in rat incisors did not show any toxic effects of the light-curing composite material Lux-a-fill, independent of the remaining dentin thickness. The clinically controlled 2-year study of restorations of cavity class I, III, IV and V have yielded good results in the front teeth region. In addition to the clinical study a micromorphological follow-up study of the surface morphology was performed in cavity class I, and small restorations have been found clinically acceptable after 2 years. Despite of the good results further medium term studies are needed for extended restorations in posterior teeth. The combination of biological application tests in an adequate animal experiment and highly standardized clinical studies is a important prerequisite for the introduction of new filling materials.