Curing profile and marginal gap formation using a liner containing long-wavelength-absorbing photoinitiator: an in vitro study.

The aim was to evaluate the marginal-gap formation and curing profile of a new restorative technique using a liner with long-wavelength-absorbing photoinitiator (LWAP). Box-shaped preparations (6 mm × 4 mm × 4 mm) were made in third molars. All samples were treated with Clearfill SE Bond and divided into 4 groups (n = 5), according to restorative technique used: (1) incremental technique (INC-Technique); (2) camphorquinone-based liner (CQ-Liner) + bulk-fill resin composite; (3) LWAP-based liner (LWAP-Liner) + bulk-fill resin composite; and (4) bulk-fill technique without liner (BF-Technique). The marginal gaps (%) for all the samples were measured using micro-computed tomography. The restorations were cross-sectioned, and the degree of conversion (DC) and Knoop microhardness were evaluated at different depths (0.3, 1, 2, 3, and 4 mm). INC-Technique, CQ-Liner, and LWAP-Liner groups showed significantly fewer marginal gaps than those from the BF-Technique group. The BF-Technique specimens had the lowest DC and microhardness in depth. All the other techniques presented similar degree of conversion and microhardness at all the depths. The use of liners, regardless of the photoinitiator system, decreased the marginal-gap formation and improved the curing profile of bulk-filling restoration technique.

Delayed light-curing of dual-cure bulk-fill composites on internal adaptation and depth of cure.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of delayed light-curing of dual-cure bulk-fill composites on internal adaptation and microhardness (KHN) in depth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Bulk-fill composites were placed in 35 box-shaped preparations and cured according to the following protocols (n = 5): Filtek Bulk-Fill light-cured immediately after insertion (FBF); Bulk-EZ light-cured immediately after insertion (BEZ-I); Bulk-EZ light-cured 90 s after insertion (BEZ-DP); Bulk-EZ self-cured (BEZ-SC); HyperFIL light-cured immediately after insertion (HF-I); HyperFIL light-cured 90 s after insertion (HF-DP); HyperFIL self-cured (HF-SC). After 24 h, the samples were axially sectioned, and the internal adaptation was evaluated using replicas under a scanning electron microscope. The KHN was evaluated at six depths (0.3 mm, 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, and 5 mm). The statistical analysis was performed using α = 0.05. RESULTS: The KHN significantly decreased with depth, except in self-curing mode, when it was similar at all depths. Delayed light-curing significantly increased the KHN at higher depths. The internal adaptation was material-dependent. Light-curing did not influence the internal adaptation of HyperFIL, whereas delayed light-curing significantly reduced the internal gaps (%) of Bulk-EZ. CONCLUSION: Delayed light-curing improved the depth of cure of dual-cure resin composites. Light-curing did not influence the internal adaptation of HyperFIL, but delayed light-curing improved the internal adaptation of Bulk-EZ. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Light-curing is fundamental for improving the mechanical properties of dual-cure resin composites. Moreover, depending on the dual-cure resin composite, the delay in light-curing can reduce the internal gaps.

Adhesive Strength in Dentin Conditioned with 18% Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid versus 35% Phosphoric Acid: In Vitro Study with 1-Year Artificial Aging.

The success and longevity of a resin composite restoration is determined by its good bonding to the tooth structure, with the adhesion being a challenge to dentin due to its complexity and structural heterogeneity. The present study aimed to compare the adhesive strength of dentin conditioned with 18% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) versus 35% phosphoric acid (H3PO4) in human premolars. Materials and Methods: This in vitro experimental study was performed on 40 human premolars. The occlusal thirds were sectioned and randomly placed into four groups according to the type of dentin conditioning: Group 1 (control), Group 2 (18% EDTA), Group 3 (35% H3PO4) and Group 4 (18% EDTA plus 35% H3PO4). Then, 10,000 thermocycles between 5 +/− 2 °C and 55 +/− 2 °C were applied. Adhesive strength was tested by shearing with a digital universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 0.75 mm/min. The values obtained were analyzed in megapascals (MPa). The mean and standard deviation were used as measures of central tendency and dispersion. In addition, a one-factor intergroup ANOVA test was applied with Tukey's post hoc test considering a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: The 18% EDTA and 18% EDTA plus 35% H3PO4 showed significantly higher adhesive strength compared to the control group that did not receive dentin conditioning (p = 0.047 and p < 0.001, respectively). However, the group conditioned with 18% EDTA did not present significant differences compared to the group conditioned with 35% H3PO4 (p = 0.997). In addition, the group conditioned with 18% EDTA plus 35% H3PO4 showed significantly higher adhesive strength compared to the groups conditioned with 18% EDTA (p = 0.002) and 35% H3PO4 (p = 0.001). Conclusion: The adhesion of bulk fill resin composite to dentin was favorable when preconditioning was performed using 18% EDTA followed by 35% H3PO4. In contrast, when both etchants were used separately, the bulk fill resin composite showed similar bond strength values in both cases, but significantly lower compared to their sequential application.

Clinical follow-up at 18 months of two bulk fill occlusal composite resins: a double-blind randomized clinical study / Seguimiento clínico a 18 meses de dos resinas compuestas oclusales bulk fill: estudio clínico aleatorio doble ciego

Objetive: To compare the clinical behavior of two types of Bulk Fill composite resins and a nanohybrid resin at 18 months in occlusal restorations. Material and Methods: Three occlusal restorations were performed in each one of the 55 participants. They were randomly distributed into three groups, TN: Tetric-N-Ceram Bulk-Fill, FK: Filtek Bulk-Fill, and Z350: Filtek Z350XT. Adhesive techniques and restorative procedures were performed according to the manufacturer's instructions for each restorative material used. In TN and FK an increment of 4mm was applied, and in Z350 increments of ≤2mm depth were applied. Two calibrated operators evaluated the restorations at baseline and at 18 months using the FDI World Dental Federations system (1: excellent, 2: good, 3: satisfactory, 4: unsatisfactory, 5: poor) for clinical marginal staining (MS) properties, fracture-retention (FR), superficial texture (ST), marginal integrity (MI), postoperative sensitivity (PS) and caries (C). Kruskal-Wallis and Wilcoxon were used to compare the 3 groups at 18 months (5% significance). Results: 38 patients with a total of 114 restorations were assessed, being evaluated with excellent clinical behavior; MI, 78.9% in Z350, 89.51% in TN and 81.6% in FK; ST 73.5% in Z350, 86.8% in TN, and 84.2% in FK; MS 84.2% in Z350, 84.2% in TN, and 91.2% in FK; PS 100% in Z350 and 97.3% in TN and FK; in C and FR, 100% in the 3 groups. There were no significant differences between the three groups (p>0.05). Conclusion: The three resins studied presented a good clinical performance at 18 months without showing significant differences in the clinical properties evaluated.

Objetivo: Comparar el comportamiento clínico a 18 meses en restauraciones oclusales entre dos tipos de resinas compuestas Bulk Fill y una resina nanohíbrida. Material y Métodos: En 55 participantes se realizaron 3 restauraciones oclusales en cada paciente, distribuidas aleatoriamente en 3 grupos, TN: Tetric-N-Ceram Bulk-Fill, FK: Filtek Bulk-Fill y Z350: Filtek Z350XT. Las técnicas adhesivas y procedimientos restauradores fueron realizados según las instrucciones de los fabricantes de cada material restaurador utilizado. En TN y FK se aplicó un incremento de 4mm y en Z350 se aplicó incrementos ≤ 2 mm de profundidad. Dos operadores calibrados evaluaron las restauraciones al baseline y a los 18 meses mediante el sistema FDI World Dental Federations (1: excelente, 2: aceptable, 3: suficiente, 4: insatisfactorio, 5: inaceptable) en las propiedades clínicas de tinción marginal (TM), fractura-retención (FR), textura superficial (TS), integridad marginal (IM), sensibilidad postoperatoria (SP) y caries (C). Se utilizó Kruskal-Wallis y Wilcoxon para la comparación de los 3 grupos a 18 meses (significancia de 5%). Resultados: Se controlaron 38 pacientes con un total de 114 restauraciones, siendo evaluados con comportamiento clínico excelente; IM, 78.9% en Z350, 89.51% en TN y 81.6% en FK; TS 73.5%, en Z350, 86.8% en TN y 84.2% en FK; TM, 84.2% en Z350, 84.2% en TN y 91.2% en FK; SP 100% en Z350 y 97,3% en TN y FK; en C y FR 100% en los 3 grupos. No hubo diferencias significativas entre los 3 grupos (p>0,05). Conclusión: Las 3 resinas estudiadas presentaron un buen desempeño clínico a 18 meses sin mostrar diferencias significativas en las propiedades clínicas evaluadas.

The Microhardness and Surface Roughness Assessment of Bulk-Fill Resin Composites Treated with and without the Application of an Oxygen-Inhibited Layer and a Polishing System: An In Vitro Study.

The aim of this study was to assess the microhardness and surface roughness of bulk-fill resin composites treated with and without the application of an oxygen-inhibited layer (OIL) and a polishing system. This in vitro experimental study consisted of 72 resin composite blocks divided into three groups: Tetric N-Ceram Bulk Fill, Opus Bulk Fill APS, and Filtek Bulk Fill. Each resin composite group was further divided into two subgroups: with and without OIL control. Subsequently, surface roughness and microhardness were measured before and after polishing. A t-test was used to compare independent and related measures. For the intergroup comparison of variation before and after polishing, the Kruskal−Wallis test with Bonferroni post hoc was used considering a significance level of p < 0.05. When comparing surface roughness, significant differences were observed between Opus Bulk Fill resin composite with and without OIL control (p = 0.003) before polishing. The same occurred when comparing Tetric N-Ceram resin composite with and without OIL control (p = 0.039) after polishing. In addition, the surface roughness of Filtek Bulk Fill, Opus Bulk Fill, and Tetric N-Ceram Bulk Fill resin composites, with and without OIL control, decreased significantly after polishing (p < 0.001), while surface microhardness significantly increased (p < 0.05), with the exception of Opus Bulk Fill resin with OIL control (p = 0.413). In conclusion, OIL control and polishing significantly improved the surface roughness and surface microhardness of Filtek Bulk Fill and Tetric N-Ceram Bulk Fill resin composites. However, in the case of Opus Bulk Fill resin composite, only its surface roughness was significantly improved.

Influence of the self-adhering strategy on microhardness, sorption, solubility, color stability, and cytotoxicity compared to bulk-fill and conventional resin composites.

OBJECTIVES: To analyze and compare, in vitro, the microhardness, sorption, solubility, color stability, and cytotoxicity of three types of resin composites: self-adhesive (SARC) (Dyad Flow (DF)/Kerr), bulk-fill (Filtek Bulk Fill Flow (FBF)/3 M ESPE), and conventional (Filtek Z350XT Flow (Z350)/3 M ESPE). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty cylindrical specimens were prepared using a split metal mold (15 mm × 1 mm), divided into 3 groups (n = 10) according to the material used. Vickers hardness (VH) was calculated from three indentations (300gf/15 s) per specimen. The sorption and solubility were measured according to the ISO 4049:2009 specification after storing in distilled water for 7 days. The color of each resin composite was measured using a portable digital spectrophotometer according to the CIELAB system. After a 7-day immersion in coffee, the color variation (∆E) was calculated. Following the ISO 10993:2012, the cytotoxicity in Vero cells was evaluated through the MTT assay. The results were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test to compare the studied groups. The Wilcoxon test was used to compare the assessments in each studied group. For cytotoxicity analysis, the data were compared by the ANOVA test (α = 0.05). RESULTS: DF showed the lowest VH (28.67), highest sorption (0.543 µg/mm3) and solubility (1.700 µg/mm3), and higher ∆E after 7 days of coffee immersion (p = 0.008). The resin composites studied were considered non-cytotoxic. CONCLUSIONS: The SARC presented inferior mechanical and physical-chemical properties than bulk-fill and conventional resin composites, with comparable cytotoxicity against Vero cells. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The simplification of the clinical protocol of SARC can minimize the number of possible failures during the restorative technique. However, considering their inferior physical and mechanical properties, their coverage with materials of higher mechanical properties and physical-chemical stability should be considered.

Surface roughness and oxygen inhibited layer control in bulk-fill and conventional nanohybrid resin composites with and without polishing: in vitro study.

BACKGROUND: It has been demonstrated that dental restorations with rough surfaces can have several disadvantages such as pigment retention or plaque accumulation, which can facilitate caries formation, color variation, loss of brightness, degradation of restoration, among others. The present study aimed to assess surface roughness in bulk fill and conventional nanohybrid resins with and without polishing, controlling the oxygen inhibited layer. METHODS: This in vitro and longitudinal experimental study consisted of 120 resin blocks of 6 mm diameter and 4 mm depth, divided into two groups: Bulk Fill (Tetric® N-Ceram Bulk-fill, Opus Bulk Fill APS, Filtek™ Bulk Fill) and conventional nanohybrid (Tetric® N-Ceram, Opallis EA2, Filtek™ Z250 XT). Each resin group was divided into two equal parts, placing glycerin only on one of them, in order to control the oxygen inhibited layer. Subsequently, the surface roughness was measured before and after the polishing procedure with Sof-Lex discs. The data were analyzed with the T-test for related measures, and for comparison between groups before and after polishing, the non-parametric Kruskal Wallis test with the Bonferroni post hoc was used, considering a significance level of p < 0.05. RESULTS: Before polishing, the resin composites with the lowest surface roughness were Opus Bulk Fill APS (0.383 ± 0.186 µm) and Opallis EA2 (0.430 ± 0. 177 µm) with and without oxygen inhibited layer control, respectively; while after polishing, those with the lowest surface roughness were Opus Bulk Fill APS (0.213 ± 0.214 µm) and Tetric N-Ceram (0.097 ± 0.099 µm), with and without oxygen inhibited layer control, respectively. Furthermore, before and after polishing, all resins significantly decreased their surface roughness (p < 0.05) except Opus Bulk Fill APS resin with oxygen inhibited layer control (p = 0.125). However, when comparing this decrease among all groups, no significant differences were observed (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The Opus Bulk Fill APS resin with oxygen inhibited layer control presented lower surface roughness both before and after polishing, being these values similar at both times. However, after polishing the other bulk fill and conventional nanohybrid resins with and without oxygen inhibited layer control, the surface roughness decreased significantly in all groups, being this decrease similar in all of them.

Restauración clase II MOD mediante uso de resina bulk-fill fluida y resina de estratificación natural: combinando fortalezas en una preparación extensa / Class II MOD restoration using bulk-fill flowable and natural layering resin composites: combining strengths in an extensive preparation

RESUMEN La restauración de grandes preparaciones cavitarias clases II MOD es un escenario clínico de alta complejidad. Elegir correctamente una resina compuesta y planificar la secuencia de estratificación permitirá mejorar la adaptación de las masas de resina y controlar el estrés de contracción de polimerización. En el siguiente reporte de caso clínico, se expone el protocolo paso a paso para el uso combinado de una resina compuesta para estratificación de esmalte de alto índice de refracción para la restauración de los rebordes marginales perdidos y la superficie oclusal, junto a una resina compuesta bulk-fill de baja viscosidad para la reconstrucción dentinaria en un diente posterior con gran destrucción coronaria.

ABSTRACT The restoration of large class II MOD cavity preparations is a highly complex clinical scenario. Selecting correctly a composite resin and planning the stratification sequence will improve the adaptation of the composite resin masses and will control the polymerization shrinkage stress. In the following clinical case report, the step- by-step protocol of the combined use of an high-refractive-index enamel-like composite resin is shown for the restoration of lost marginal ridges and the occlusal surface, together with a low viscosity Bulk-Fill composite resin for dentine reconstruction in a highly damaged posterior tooth.

Effect of handpiece light and material used in pulp chamber on dentin removal during root canal retreatment

Abstract This study evaluated the effect of the use of glass ionomer cement (GIC) and flowable bulk-fill resin composite (BFRC) for filling pulp chambers and the type of high-speed handpiece light used on dentin removal during access preparation for endodontic retreatment in molar teeth. Twenty maxillary molars were treated endodontically. BFRC (Opus Bulk Fill Flow APS, FGM) was used to fill the pulp chamber and replace coronal dentin (n = 10). In the remaining teeth, the pulp chamber was filled with GIC (Maxion R, FGM). Conventional resin composite (Opallis, FGM) was used to restore the enamel layer in all teeth. The samples in each group were divided into two subgroups, and the root canals were reaccessed using a handpiece with white or ultraviolet light. The teeth were scanned using micro-CT before and after root canal reaccess. The dentin volume removed was calculated and analyzed using 2-way analysis of variance and Tukey's test (α = 0.05). The crown and pulp chamber locations with dentin removal are described using frequency distribution. During the access, fewer pulp chamber walls were affected and a lower volume of dentin was removed from the pulpal floor in the group restored with GIC than in the group restored with BFRC. No effect was observed on the coronal dentin walls with respect to the filling protocols and type of light used. For dentin removal from the pulp chamber, handpieces with white light performed better than those with ultraviolet light, irrespective of the filling protocol used. The use of GIC to fill the pulp chamber and use of white handpiece light reduced dentin removal from the pulpal floor and resulted in fewer affected dentin walls.

Resumo Este estudo avaliou os efeitos do cimento de ionômero de vidro (GIC) e da resina composta fluida bulk fill (BFRC) usados como preenchimento da câmara pulpar; e o tipo de iluminação das turbinas de alta rotação na remoção dentinária após cavidades de acesso para retratamento endodôntico em dentes molares. Vinte molares superiores foram tratados endodonticamente. Dez dentes foram restaurados usando BFRC (Opus Bulk Fill Flow APS, FGM) para preencher a câmara pulpar e dentina coronária; e resina composta convencional (Opallis, FGM) para restaurar a camada de esmalte. Os outros dentes foram restaurados usando GIC (Maxion R, FGM) para preencher a câmara pulpar e resina composta (Opallis, FGM). As amostras foram divididas em dois grupos e os canais radiculares foram novamente acessados com turbina de alta-rotação com iluminação branca ou ultravioleta. Os dentes foram escaneados usando micro-CT antes e após o novo acesso ao canal radicular. O volume de dentina removida foi calculado e os dados foram analisados por ANOVA bidirecional e teste de Tukey (α=0,05). As regiões na coroa e na câmara pulpar que apresentaram dentina removida no acesso dos canais foram descritas por meio de distribuição por frequência. A reabertura do canal radicular com GIC resultou em menos paredes afetadas da câmara pulpar e menor volume de dentina removida no assoalho. Nenhum efeito foi observado nas paredes de dentina coronária considerando aos protocolos de preenchimento. A turbina de alta rotação com iluminação branca reduziu a remoção de dentina da câmara pulpar, independentemente do protocolo de restauração utilizado. O uso de turbina de alta rotação com iluminação branca e GIC para preencher a câmara pulpar reduziram a remoção de dentina do assoalho e afetaram menos paredes dentinárias.

Effect of Light Sources on Bond Strength of Different Composite Resins Repaired with Bulk-Fill Composite / Efecto del tipo de fuente luz en la resistencia adhesiva de distintas resinas compuestas reparados con una resina bulk-fill

Abstract: The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the effects of different light sources on shear bond strength when bulk-fill composite was used for the repair of different composite resins. A total of 126 samples made from six resin composites with different properties were aged (thermal-cycling with 5000 cycle), exposed to the same surface treatments and adhesive procedure. Then, they were repaired with a bulk-fill composite. At the polymerization step, each group was divided into three subgroups (n=7) and light cured with a QTH light source for 40s and two different LED light sources for 20s. Subsequently, the specimens were aged in distilled water at 37 ºC for 4 weeks and then subjected to shear bond strength test. Then, the specimens were examined under a stereomicroscope to identify modes of failure and visualized by Scanning Electron Microscope. Data obtained from the study were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey HSD Test (α=0.05). In all groups, the light curing units had an impact on shear bond strength (p<0.05). Among the study groups, the greatest bond strength values were observed in the specimens repaired using the LED and the specimens repaired with the QTH light curing unit had the lowest bond strength values. It was concluded that the content of composite resins and light curing units may influence bond strength of different composites repaired with the bulk-fill composite.

Resumen: El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar y comparar los efectos de diferentes fuentes de luz sobre la resistencia de la unión al cizallamiento cuando se utiliza una resina bulk-fill para la reparación de diferentes resinas compuestas. Se envejecieron un total de 126 muestras fabricadas con seis compuestos de resina con diferentes propiedades (ciclo térmico con 5000 ciclos), expuestas a los mismos tratamientos de superficie y procedimiento adhesivo. Luego, fueron reparadas con una resina bulk- fill. En el paso de polimerización, cada grupo fue dividido en tres subgrupos (n=7) y fotopolimerizado con una fuente de luz QTH por 40s y dos fuentes de luz LED por 20s. Posteriormente, los especímenes se envejecieron en agua destilada a 37 ºC durante 4 semanas y luego se sometieron a una prueba de resistencia adhesiva de cizalla. Luego, los especímenes fueron examinados bajo un estereomicroscopio para identificar los modos de falla y visualizados por el Microscopio Electrónico de Barrido. Los datos obtenidos del estudio fueron analizados usando el ANOVA y la prueba Tukey HSD (α=0.05). En todos los grupos, las unidades de fotopolimerización tuvieron un impacto en la fuerza de adhesión al cizallamiento (p<0,05). Entre los grupos de estudio, los mayores valores de fuerza de adhesión se observaron en los especímenes reparados utilizando el LED y los especímenes reparados con la unidad de fotopolimerización QTH tuvieron los valores de fuerza de adhesión más bajos. Se llegó a la conclusión de que el contenido de las resinas compuestas y las unidades de fotopolimerización pueden influir en la fuerza de adhesión de los diferentes compuestos reparados con resinas bulk-fill.

Solving color irregularities with a bioactive bulk-fill restorative system: case report and 24-months follow up / Resolución de irregularidades de color con un sistema restaurador bulk-fill bioactivo: reporte de caso y seguimiento de 24 meses

Bulk-fill resin composites represent an excellent alternative to the conventional incremental layering technique for the reduction of polymerization stress on the adhesive interface. Marginal seal can be further improved by the incorporation of bioactive fillers, such as those encountered in Giomers. However, the high translucency required for the adequate polymerization of bulk-fill materials can seriously jeopardize the final aesthetic outcome of the restorations, especially in the presence of inhomogeneous or stained dentin substrates. The aim of this case report was to present the combined use of two bulk-fill Giomer materials (Beautifil Bulk Flowable and Beautifil II LS, Shofu) for the restoration of three posterior maxillary teeth displaying a black stained dentin substrate due to amalgam corrosion products. This technique allowed completion of the restorations with a satisfactory aesthetic and biomimetic outcome. The adequate preservation of the anatomy and function of the three restorations after 24-months follow-up, provides evidence of the enhanced marginal sealing capacity of these bioactive materials and the success of bulk-fill techniques over time.

Las resinas compuestas de tipo bulk-fill representan una excelente alternativa a la técnica incremental para la reducción de la tensión de polimerización sobre la interfaz adhesiva. La incorporación de rellenos bioactivos, como los que se encuentran en los materiales con tecnología giomer, refuerzan aún más el sellado marginal de estas restauraciones. Sin embargo, la alta translucidez, necesaria para la adecuada polimerización de los materiales tipo bulk-fill, puede comprometer seriamente el resultado estético final de las restauraciones, especialmente en presencia de sustratos dentarios no homogéneos u oscurecidos. El objetivo de este reporte de caso fue presentar el uso combinado de dos materiales giomer tipo bulk-fill (Beautifil Bulk Flowable y Beautifil II LS, Shofu) para la restauración de tres dientes maxilares posteriores con un sustrato dentinario ennegrecido debido a productos de corrosión de amalgama. Esta técnica permitió completar las restauraciones con un resultado estético y biomimético satisfactorio. La adecuada conservación de la anatomía y la función de las tres restauraciones tras un período de 24 meses, aporta evidencia sobre la adecuada capacidad de sellado marginal de estos materiales bioactivos y el éxito de las técnicas de restauración tipo bulk-fill en el tiempo.

Clinical Effectiveness of Bulk-Fill and Conventional Resin Composite Restorations: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine the clinical effectiveness of bulk-fill and conventional resin in composite restorations. A bibliographic search was carried out until May 2020, in the biomedical databases Pubmed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, CENTRAL and Web of Science. The study selection criteria were: randomized clinical trials, in English, with no time limit, with a follow-up greater than or equal to 6 months and that reported the clinical effects (absence of fractures, absence of discoloration or marginal staining, adequate adaptation marginal, absence of post-operative sensitivity, absence of secondary caries, adequate color stability and translucency, proper surface texture, proper anatomical form, adequate tooth integrity without wear, adequate restoration integrity, proper occlusion, absence of inflammation and adequate point of contact) of restorations made with conventional and bulk resins. The risk of bias of the study was analyzed using the Cochrane Manual of Systematic Reviews of Interventions. Sixteen articles were eligible and included in the study. The results indicated that there is no difference between restorations with conventional and bulk resins for the type of restoration, type of tooth restored and restoration technique used. However, further properly designed clinical studies are required in order to reach a better conclusion.

Bulk Fill flow resin contraction using 3D finite element model and calibration by Fiber Bragg Grating measurement.

Contraction due to polymerization of dental resin can cause failure on the adhesive interfaces, can lead to problems such as the appearance of gaps in the interfaces, postoperative sensitivity, pulp damage and the return of the caries. The objective of this work is the study of stresses on the dental adhesive that are generated by the process shrinkage of resin associated with biting forces. A laboratory experiment measured the strains and temperature inside the FiltekTM Bulk Fill Flow resin during the process of polymerization using Fiber Bragg Grating sensors in an ex vivo tooth. From tomographic images a three-dimensional geometric model of the tooth was reconstructed. A pre-tension was calibrated to simulate the residual contraction on the resin 3 D model. Finally, an Finite Element Method analysis was performed to access the adhesive stresses at the interface enamel/dentin with the adhesive, considering as loading the residual polymerization contraction of the dental resin and also biting loads. The model was able to represented the strain obtained in the laboratory experiment. The results of the stress analysis shows that the outer regions of adhesive are more prone to failure, as veried by dental surgeons in clinical practice.

Do bulk-fill resins decrease the restorative time in posterior teeth? A systematic review and meta-analysis of in vitro studies.

The aim of the present study was to compare the restorative time for filling cavities in posterior teeth using bulk-fill and conventional resin composites through a systematic review and meta-analysis. A search for clinical trials and laboratory studies was performed in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, the Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature database, the Brazilian Library in Dentistry, Cochrane Library, Clinical Trials, and ReBEC (Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos) databases without publication year or language restriction. Two reviewers identified eligible studies according to the inclusion criteria: bulk-fill compared to conventional resin in class I or II, and the restorative time as an outcome. A meta-analysis of the restorative time mean difference between composites was performed (inverse variance method, random effects model; Z-test, P ≤ .05). From the 662 eligible studies, 133 were selected for full-text analysis; three were included in the systematic review and in the meta-analysis. Overall, the restorative time was lower when bulk-fill was used (P = .0007, Z = 3.37), as the subgroup full-body bulk-fill (P < .00001, Z = 21.00). There was no difference in restorative time between flowable bulk-fill and conventional resins (P = .08, Z = 1.76). Moderate-to-substantial heterogeneity was detected. Full-body bulk-fill composites decrease the restorative time in posterior teeth compared to conventional resins. Full-body bulk-fill resins require a shorter restorative time to perform restorations in posterior teeth than conventional resins, but the same is not valid for flowable bulk-fill resin composites.

Bulk-Fill Composite Restorations Step-by-Step Description of Clinical Restorative Techniques Case Reports / Restauraciones compuestas Bulk-Fill Descripción paso a paso de las técnicas de restauración clínica Informes de casos

ABSTRACT Composite resins are excellent materials for direct restorations in the posterior region, satisfactorily reestablishing esthetics and function. Recently, a new class of composites has been commercialized, the so-called Bulk-fill resins. These resins may be inserted in the dental cavity in increments of 4 to 5 mm thick, and have the advantages of reducing polymerization shrinkage and clinical working time. The aim of this case report was to describe the use of bulk-fill composite resins to restore Class I and Class II cavities by means of two different restorative techniques.

RESUMEN Las resinas compuestas son excelentes materiales para restauraciones directas en la región posterior, restableciendo satisfactoriamente la estética y la función. Recientemente, se ha comercializado una nueva clase de compuestos, las denominadas resinas Bulk Fill. Estas resinas pueden insertarse en la cavidad dental en incrementos de 4 a 5 mm de espesor, y tienen las ventajas de reducir la contracción de la polimerización y el tiempo de trabajo clínico. El objetivo de este informe de caso fue describir el uso de resinas Bulk fill para restaurar las cavidades de Clase I y Clase II mediante dos técnicas de restauración diferentes.

Nueva técnica de reconstrucción postendodóncica: resina bulk-fill intraconducto vs postes de fibra de vidrio / New postendodontic reconstruction technique: bulk-fill intracanal resin vs glass fiber posts

Introducción: El uso de postes de fibra de vidrio es el método actual más utilizado para la reconstrucción postendodóncica. Sin embargo, su adhesión sigue siendo impredecible debido al control limitado de su técnica de cementación. Las resinas bulk-fill revelan valores de fuerza flexural similares a la dentina y su empleo en la reconstrucción postendodóncica podría ser una alternativa viable y conservadora. Objetivo: Comparar tres técnicas de reconstrucción postendodóncica al medir su resistencia a fuerzas de desalojo, clasificar el tipo de fractura y falla adhesiva, evaluar su costo y tiempo de trabajo. Material y métodos: Se realizan 18 muestras divididas en tres grupos: grupo 1: poste más cemento de un paso, grupo 2: poste más cemento de tres pasos y grupo 3: reconstrucción postendodóncica con resina bulk-fill. Resultados: En la evaluación de la fuerza al desalojo no se encontró diferencia estadísticamente significativa en los tres grupos. Respecto al comportamiento y falla adhesiva, se encontró una diferencia significativa p < 0.001, favoreciendo a los grupos 2 y 3, por su adhesión en la porción radicular. El tipo de fractura fue restaurable para los tres grupos. Respecto al tiempo y costo, fueron significativamente menores para el grupo 3. Conclusión: En nuestro estudio no existió diferencia significativa en la fuerza al desalojo en los tres grupos; sin embargo, la hubo en el comportamiento, falla adhesiva, costo y tiempo, favoreciendo mayormente al grupo 3. La técnica de reconstrucción con resina puede ser una técnica predecible, suficientemente resistente, conservadora, rápida y de menor costo

Introduction: The use of fiberglass posts is the current method most used for post-endodontic reconstruction. However, its adhesion remains unpredictable due to the limited control of its cementing technique. Bulkfill resins reveal values of flexural strength similar to dentin and their use in post-endodontic reconstruction could be a viable and conservative alternative. Objective: Compare three post-endodontic reconstruction techniques by measuring their resistance to eviction forces, classifying the type of fracture and adhesive failure, evaluating their cost and time of work. Material and methods: 18 samples are divided into 3 groups: group 1: post plus cement of 1 step, group 2: post plus cement of 3 steps and group 3: post-endodontic reconstruction with bulk-fill resin. Results: In the evaluation of the force to the eviction, no statistically significant difference was found in the 3 groups. Regarding the behavior and adhesive failure, a significant difference was found p < 0.001, favoring groups 2 and 3, due to its adhesion in the root portion. The type of fracture was restorable for the 3 groups. Regarding time and cost, they were significantly lower for group 3. Conclusion: In our study there was no significant difference in the force to the eviction in the three groups, however there was in the behavior, adhesive failure, cost and time, favoring mainly the group 3. The technique of reconstruction with resin can be a predictable technique, Sufficiently resistant, conservative, fast and of lower cost (AU)

Clinical performance of bulk-fill and conventional resin composite restorations in posterior teeth: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this systematic review was to compare the clinical performance of bulk-fill resin composites with conventional resin composites used for direct restorations of posterior teeth. METHODS: This review followed the PRISMA statement. This review was registered at PROSPERO (registration number CRD42016053436). A search of the scientific literature was performed by two independent reviewers using the PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, The Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases from commencement until January 2018. The research question was "Do bulk-fill resin composites have a clinical performance comparable to conventional resin composites in posterior restorations?" Only studies evaluating class I and II direct restorations in permanent teeth with a follow-up period of at least 1 year were included. The RevMan 5 program was used for meta-analysis, calculating the relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of the dichotomous outcome (restoration failure or success). RESULTS: Ten articles were selected, comprising 941 analyzed restorations. The mean follow-up period was 33.6 months (12-72 months). No statistically significant differences in the failure rate were observed between conventional and base/flowable bulk-fill resin composites (p = 0.31; RR 1.49; 95% CI 0.69-3.25) or full-body/sculptable bulk-fill resin composites (p = 0.12; RR 1.89; 95% CI 0.84-4.24). CONCLUSIONS: The present systematic review and meta-analysis indicate similar clinical performances of bulk-fill and conventional resin composites over a follow-up period of 12 to 72 months. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Based on the results of this study, the bulk-fill resin composites could be an alternative for direct restorations in posterior teeth. However, clinical trials of longer duration are required.

How do the optical properties of the bulk fill posterior composites change after 2 years of simulated toothbrushing? / Como as propriedades ópticas de compósitos bulk fill se comportam após 2 anos de escovação simulada?

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the alteration of the optical properties of bulk fill resin-based composites after two years of simulated toothbrushing. Material and Methods: Three high-viscosity bulk fill resin composites and one conventional sculptable resin composite (control) were analyzed. Five specimens of each resin composite were prepared, and roughness, color, translucency and gloss were evaluated initially and after one and two years of simulated toothbrushing. The specimens were submitted to electric simulated toothbrushing (14600 strokes / 100 g) using a commercially available soft bristle toothbrush and toothpaste slurry in a proportion of 1:2 by weight. The brushing scheme was of 40 cycles per day (2 cycles per second / 280 cycles in a week). The optical properties and the roughness data were analyzed by a multifactor analysis of variance (MANOVA) and a Tukey post hoc test. Results: The baseline and final values of Ra and Sa were submitted to linear regression analyses, all of which were performed at a significance level of 5%. Gloss and roughness presented statistical differences between the resin-time interactions in all composite resins. The gloss (72.5%) and roughness (89.4%) worsened significantly after brushing, but the authors didn't find statistically significant differences when evaluating translucency and color. Conclusion: Based in the results, it could be concluded that the simulated brushing degraded the gloss and roughness of the used high-viscosity bulk fill composites. (AU)

Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a alteração das propriedades ópticas de resinas compostas do tipo bulk fill após dois anos de escovação simulada. Material e Métodos: Foram analisadas três resinas compostas do tipo bulk fill de alta viscosidade e uma resina composta convencional (controle). Cinco corpos-deprova de cada resina composta foram preparados e a rugosidade, cor, translucidez e brilho foram avaliados inicialmente e após um e dois anos de escovação simulada. Os espécimes foram submetidos a escovação dental simulada (14.600 golpes / 100 g) utilizando-se escova de dentes de cerdas macias comercialmente disponíveis e uma pasta composta de dentifrício e água na proporção de 1:2 em peso. O esquema de escovação foi de 40 ciclos por dia (2 ciclos por segundo / 280 ciclos por semana). As propriedades ópticas e os dados de rugosidade foram analisados por uma análise de variância multifatorial (MANOVA) e um teste post hoc de Tukey. Resultados: Os valores iniciais e finais de Ra e Sa foram submetidos a análises de regressão linear, todas realizadas ao nível de significância de 5%. O brilho e a rugosidade apresentaram diferenças estatísticas entre as interações resina-tempo em todas as resinas compostas. O brilho (72,5%) e a rugosidade (89,4%) pioraram significativamente após a escovação, mas os autores não encontraram diferenças estatisticamente significativas ao avaliar a translucidez e a cor. Conclusão: Com base nos resultados, pôde-se concluir que a escovação simulada degradou o brilho e a rugosidade das resinas compostas do tipo bulk fill avaliadas. (AU)

Depth of cure of bulk fill resin composites: A systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate scientific evidence regarding depth of cure of bulk-fill resin composites (BFRCs) and related factors. MATERIAL AND METHODS: PubMed/Medline, Embase, Scopus, and ISI Web of Science databases were accessed from October 2016 to May 2017. Investigations published in English language, assessing depth of cure of BFRCs by microhardness test and/or degree of conversion (DC) were included. Studies using exclusively ISO 4049, employing specimens deepness less than 4 mm, as well as those not reporting exposure time and/or irradiance from light curing units (LCUs) were excluded. RESULTS: In total, 742 studies were found from which 33 were included. From 21 studies evaluating BFRCs microhardness, 10 showed acceptable bottom/top ratios (≥0.8) for all tested materials. However, material-dependent results and non-satisfactory bottom/top microhardness ratios (<0.8) were reported in 9 and 2 investigations, respectively. From 19 studies that assessed DC, 11 showed acceptable results (≥50%) for all tested BFRCs, while 8 studies reported material-dependent outcomes. Overall, irradiance from LCUs ranged from 650 to 1330 mW/cm2 and exposure time from 5 to 60 seconds. Favorable depth of cure results were observed with the use of LCUs emitting irradiance ≥1000 mW/cm2 and exposure times ≥20 seconds. CONCLUSIONS: High depth of cure rates by BFRCs, depends on some factors as material, irradiance and exposure time. Polywave LCUs were useful but not essential on polymerizing alternative photoinitiator-containing BFRC. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: LED curing devices (polywave or monowave) displaying an irradiance ≥1000 mW/cm2 and 20 seconds of exposure time are imperative to accomplish successful polymerization of most BFRCs.