ABSTRACT
To evaluate the effect of polishing on surface roughness of silorane-based composite using profilometery and Scanning Election Microscopy [SEM] and compare it with that of a methylmethacrylate- based composite and a glass ionomer. In this study, 3 groups [n=28] were tested: specimens of two composites [Filtek P90 and Filtek P60] and a glass ionomer [Fuji IX] which were prepared in polyethylene molds [4 mm diameter x10 mm Height]. Half of the specimens in each group were finished with 180-grit silicon carbide paper and the remaining were finished with 180-grit, and subsequently polished with 250, 400, 800, 1000, 2000, and 2500-grit silicon carbide papers. The surface roughness was evaluated using a contact profilometer and then mean [R[a]] and maximum [R[max]] of surface roughness were recorded. Then, the surface of 4 specimens of each subgroup was observed under SEM. Statistical analysis was performed with T-test, ANOVA and Dunnett T3 tests. In all materials, Ra was different between polishing with 180 and 2500-grit silicon carbide papers. In 180-grit group, only Ra of Filtek P60 and Fuji IX showed significant difference [P=0.01]. In 2500-grit group, there was no significant difference between the Ra of Filtek P60 and Filtek P90 [P=0.56]. Polishing is recommended for the glass ionomer and posterior composite restorations