Smart Dentine Replacement (SDR) from Dentsply, the first bulk fill composite, simplifies the procedure for placing adhesive posterior composite fillings. Unlike conventional flowables, SDR offers major advantages in the restoration of posterior cavities. SDR can be applied in increments of up to 4 mm without layering, facilitating safe and fast lining, even in extended Class I and Class II cavities.

There have been no representative data as to why, how often and for which indications flowable composites are used by dentists.

In a survey of 1,319 German dentists, more than 84% stated that they used universal composites for restoring posterior teeth. Additionally, more than 78% used flowables for composite fillings, primarily as liners for larger cavities or for restoring minor Class I and Class II cavities. Reasons cited for employing flowables included better adaptation to the cavity walls (72.9%) and the avoidance of air trappings (71.7%). However, there were also dentists who did not employ conventional flowables in the posterior region because they felt that they lacked sufficient mechanical strength (63.0%) and that they are not amenable to shaping (62.3%).

The survey also evaluated the new SDR filling technique. Compared with previous filling techniques, the survey rated the posterior filling technique using SDR as 'better' with regard to time saving (75%), ease of application (81%), general handling properties (77%) and adaptation to the cavity walls (88%).

SDR thus greatly simplifies the placement of posterior composite fillings.

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