Short communication. Posterior composites: update on cavities and filling techniques

A selection of abstracts of clinically relevant papers from other journals. The abstracts on this page have been chosen and edited by John R. Radford.

Abstract

'The use of high intensity plasma lights is not recommended' as they result in greater shrinkage of the resin composite.

Main

Sabbagh J, McConnell RJ et al. J Dent 2017;57: 86–90

This is a narrative review. The main disadvantage of resin composite restorations is polymerisation shrinkage; this can result in stress cracking of the enamel, but if bond fails the authors state that this can result in postoperative sensitivity, marginal staining, and recurrent caries. Of note, the higher the intensity of the light source, the greater the shrinkage. Because resin composite restorations must be placed using incremental packing, they take longer to complete than dental amalgam restorations, although this may be mitigated by the use of bulk filling resin composites and one stop self-adhesive systems. The conventional, 3-step, etch-and-rinse adhesives are still the gold standard when comparing different bonding systems. The SiSta classification of cavity design is described; it states the 'only criterion for the cavity design is the removal of the diseased tissue.' Elimination of substrate is not described.