Modeling Liquids and Resin-Based Dental Composite Materials-A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Restorative Dentistry

Background:

• Lubricant materials, such as bonding agents (BAs) and modeling liquids (MLs), are commonly used to facilitate the sculpting of resin-based composites (RBCs) in clinical dental restorative procedures.
• A significant knowledge gap exists regarding the specific effects of these modeling materials on the crucial mechanical, surface, and optical properties of RBCs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and synthesize existing in vitro research on the impact of various lubricant materials used for modeling RBCs.
• To identify the possibilities and limitations associated with using different BAs and MLs during RBC sculpting.
• To provide clinicians with a better understanding of how modeling agents influence RBC properties.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted across five databases, identifying 295 in vitro studies.
• Inclusion criteria focused on English-language articles, with no date restrictions. A total of 16 studies were selected for review, plus one additional study from reference screening.
• Investigated materials included 17 BAs and 7 MLs, with various mechanical, surface, and optical property tests performed, such as tensile strength, flexural strength, water sorption, color stability, translucency, micro-hardness, roughness, degree of conversion, and monomer elution.

Main Results:

• The review analyzed data from 17 studies examining the effects of BAs and MLs on RBC properties.
• Testing encompassed a range of properties including mechanical strength, water sorption, color stability, translucency, micro-hardness, roughness, degree of conversion, and monomer elution.
• Artificial aging (up to 24 hours) was a common storage method, though some studies tested specimens immediately after manipulation.

Conclusions:

• The use of modeling agents during RBC sculpting can influence the final properties of the composite material.
• The specific impact is dependent on the type of bonding agent or modeling liquid employed.
• Clinicians must be aware of these material-dependent effects to optimize restorative outcomes and avoid unintended alterations in composite properties.