Quantitative evaluation of the morphology of the inner surface of composite restorations

The aim of the present study was to develop a method for quantitative evaluation of the morphology of inner surfaces of composite resin restorations. Twelve restorations made in vivo using the acid etch technique were examined in a scanning electron microscope at a magnification of x 2000. 2500 predetermined areas (6300 micron2 each) on the inner surfaces of the fillings were scored from 0 to 3 with respect to the impression of their rendering of morphologic details from the etched cavity walls. Based on all the scorings and parts of the scorings, estimates for the enamel and for the dentin relief on each of the fillings were calculated. The statistical comparison of these estimates that approximately 50 areas per filling might be scored to attain an objective and reliable quantitation of the surface morphology.