Bulk-Fill Composites: A Review of the Current Literature

Area of Science:

• Restorative Dentistry
• Dental Materials Science

Background:

• Bulk-fill composites represent an advancement over conventional materials.
• Understanding their properties is crucial for effective clinical application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review available literature on bulk-fill composites.
• To identify trends and variations in their properties and applications.
• To guide clinicians in selecting appropriate bulk-fill materials for diverse clinical scenarios.

Main Methods:

• Literature review up to October 2016.
• PubMed search using keywords: "bulk-fill OR bulkfill OR bulk fill" AND "composite OR composites".

Main Results:

• Bulk-fill composites exhibit greater depth of cure, primarily due to increased translucency.
• Flowable bulk-fill composites are recommended for narrow, deep cavities (>4mm) requiring good adaptation.
• "Full-body" bulk-fill composites are preferred for extensive cavities, prioritizing wear and fracture resistance.
• Inconsistencies exist in depth of cure measurements and clinical relevance of shrinkage stress tests.

Conclusions:

• Further clinical research on deep and large restorations is needed.
• Bulk-fill composites show promise, but more evidence is required to fully elucidate their clinical benefits.