New Fast-cure Composite System for Posterior Restorations - 12 Months Results

Objectives: To evaluate the clinical performance of a new fast curing composite system for direct posterior restorations, consisting of a high irradiance light curing unit (3050mW/cm²), a universal adhesive, a flowable and a sculptable bulkfill composite.
Methods: 75 cavities (12 class I and 63 class II, 50 molars and 25 premolars) were treated with Adhese Universal (Ivoclar Vivadent) using etch&rinse technique. Composite fillings were placed using Tetric PowerFlow and Tetric PowerFill composite material (Ivoclar Vivadent) in large increments up to 4mm. Adhesive and composite materials were polymerized for 3 s per increment using Bluephase PowerCure (Ivoclar Vivadent). After 7-10 days, 6 and 12 months the restorations were evaluated regarding their aesthetic, functional and biological properties (FDI criteria). A visual analogue scale (VAS 0-10) was used to rate pre- and postoperative sensitivities and a semi-quantitative clinical evaluation-method (SQUACE) was used to document the quality of the margins.
Results: 73 of 75 restorations were evaluated after 12 months (2 no shows). All restorations showed FDI ratings ranging between "excellent" and "satisfactory" (table 1). Referring to marginal staining 99% of total margin length (SQUACE) was rated "excellent". Only minor marginal irregularities were observed. 93% of total margin length was rated "excellent", 7% was rated "good". Insignificant sensitivities (FDI "good") were reported in 4 cases at 12 months, no VAS value >2 was recorded. Tetric PowerFill showed "excellent" or "good" aesthetic results in all cases. No "unsatisfactory" fractures or cracks of material or tooth occurred. Secondary caries could not be observed.
Conclusions: The new fast curing composite system provides a reliable method to restore posterior cavities efficiently. No compromises regarding functional, biologic or aesthetic properties were found.