Scanning electron microscope investigation of in vivo performance of eight composite resins

Retention. At 6 months, five restorations were lost due to retention failure. The remaining restorations were retained to 24 months and/or 30 months. The study of one material was discontinued because of numerous retention failures. Marginal wear. Facial wear along the margin in the center portion of the restoration was appreciably greater than lingual, proximal, and incisal wear. In general, most composite resins began to display evidence of wear during the first 6 months of service. Over the study period, three restorations were lost because of excessive marginal wear. Surface texture. Most materials were clinically acceptable with regard to surface texture over the course of the study. Extended studies of greater durations are indicated.