One-year Clinical Performance of Flowable Bulk-fill Composite vs Conventional Compomer Restorations in Primary Molars

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Pediatric Dentistry
• Dental Materials

Background:

• Class II cavities in primary molars require durable and esthetic restorative materials.
• Bulk-fill composites offer potential advantages in placement efficiency over traditional composites.
• Compomers have been used in pediatric dentistry, but their performance in Class II cavities needs evaluation against newer materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the clinical performance of a flowable bulk-fill composite (Venus Bulk Fill) against a compomer (Dyract eXtra) in Class II cavities of primary molars.

Main Methods:

• A randomized clinical trial involving 100 restorations in 32 children.
• Venus Bulk Fill and Dyract eXtra were placed in Class II cavities using Scotchbond Universal adhesive.
• Restorations were evaluated at baseline and one year using FDI criteria for esthetic, functional, and biological parameters.

Main Results:

• After one year, 99 restorations were assessed.
• Dyract eXtra showed slightly better esthetic scores, while both materials had similar functional and biological performance.
• No significant differences in clinical performance were observed between Venus Bulk Fill and Dyract eXtra.

Conclusions:

• The flowable bulk-fill composite Venus Bulk Fill is a suitable alternative for restoring Class II cavities in primary teeth.
• Further long-term studies are recommended to fully ascertain the durability of Venus Bulk Fill in pediatric restorations.