SEM and rugosimetry for the analyses of the efficacy of different types of resin composites

BACKGROUND: the aim of this study was verify the possibility of using flowable composites in class V restorations and in class II cervical margin METHODS AND MATERIALS: the study was subdivided in two parts, in vivo and in vitro. The first contain 6 patients with a spot of flowable and microfilled resin on the vestibular surfaces of first superior molars. The in vitro part consists of 12 molar extracted in which was obtained class V restorations filled with flowable and microfilled. At 0 and 6 months impressions were taken for each tooth with Impregum Penta Soft and replicas were obtained with epoxy resin. The replicas were analyzed with profilometer and S.E.M. microscope. The statistic results were analyzed by the Paired Samples T Test and the Indipendent Samples T Test. RESULTS: each material, flowable and microfilled, looks modified at the microscopic and profilometric analysis even if the flowable surface modifications was more apparent. CONCLUSIONS: flowable resins can be used in class II and V cervical margins if non exposed to mechanical stresses.