Mechanical versus chemical retention in complex restoration

ABSTRACT

The aims of this study were [a] to investigate, by questionnaires, the selection and use of materials and techniques to restore complex restorations in vital teeth. [b] Can adhesive resin liners provide retention that is the same as dentinal pins and slots when restoring complex restorations in vital teeth? A self administered questionnaire was developed. Four hundred questionnaires were distributed to senior and junior general dental practitioners employed in hospitals and private sectors of Karachi city. A total of 359 questionnaires were returned, giving a response rate of 89.75%. Amalgam was the most popular material used by general dental practitioners to restore complex restorations in vital teeth followed by glass ionomer plus composite. In vital teeth retentive slots were used the most and retentive pins were the least popular. ways of mechanical retention. The results also showed respondents were using adhesive resin liners exclusively when restoring complex restorations. This study showed that adhesive resin liners may he used as an alternative or adjunct to mechanical retention. Because of the improvements of bonding strength of adhesive resin liners, dentinal pins and slots should not be the only methods considered to restore complex restorations