Clinical evaluation of a highly wear resistant composite

The purpose of this clinical study was to determine the long-term potential of a resin composite restorative material. A total of 62 restorations of a modified Herculite Incisal formulation were inserted into Class I and Class II preparations. A control group of the conventional Herculite formulation was also placed into Class I and Class II cavity preparations at an earlier date. The cavity preparations for both formulations were standardized to conform to that of conventional conservative amalgams. Deep portions of the preparations were lined with calcium hydroxide. The enamel margins were etched per manufacturers' directions followed by a dentin bonding agent. After application of the appropriate matrix, the restorations were placed incrementally. Each restoration was independently evaluated by two clinicians at baseline, 6-months, 1, 2 and 3 years in accordance with the USPHS criteria. In addition, all restorations were evaluated for wear using a series of optical standards (M-L). The color matching ability of the material never fell below 96%. The percent of restorations exhibiting a surface texture similar to enamel never fell below 90% Alfa. At the end of 3 years, the total average loss of material was only 28 microns. No clinical evidence of bulk fracture was detected with the modified Herculite formulation at 3 years. The wear rate of the modified formulation of Herculite was essentially one-half that of conventional Herculite XR. Marginal ditching, which is characteristic of most posterior resin composites in which the filler particle is 1 micron or less, was exhibited.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)