Clinical evaluation of a flowable composite in wedge-shaped defects

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical performance of wedge-shaped defects filled with a flowable composite vs. compomer. Methods: A total of 136 cervical wedge-shaped defects from 37 patients were randomly assigned to four groups according to using either flowable composites(Aelite flo)or compomer(Dract AP)and with or without preparing cavity. Color match, cavosurface marginal discoloration, marginal integrity,recurrent caries, contour, and surface texture were evaluated for all restorations on the basis of the United States Public Health Service (USPHS) criteria immediately after insertion (baseline), after 6 months, and after 12 months. Statistical analysis was completed with the Fisher's exact test. Results: No statistically significant difference(P > 0.05) among four groups was observed for evaluated categories at test period(both 6 and 12 months) except that the restoration filled with flowable composites and without cavity preparation showed low incidence of Alfa scores for marginal adaptation at 6 months than the other groups(P < 0.05). The performance rate of restoration showed no significant difference among materials groups at 6 or 12 months(P > 0.05). Conclusions: Aelite flo showed good promise as a new material for restoring non-carious wedge-shaped defects.