The purpose of this study was gingival border
tightness assessment of class II composite resin
restorations, after the use of 4 different material insertion methods.
The study included 20 human posterior (PM and M3) whole teeth, which were removed from various reasons; limited proximal-occlusal
cavities, standardized from the location and size
standpoints, were prepared on both proximal faces.
The restorations were done using the same material, that is Filtek Supreme XT (from 3M ESPE), and the Adper Easy One Bond Self-Etch Adhesive (from 3M ESPE), the specimens being distinguished depending on the material insertion method employed and classified in 4 study groups: group A: bulk technique, group B: horizontal layering technique, group C: oblique layering technique
and group D: centripetal buildup technique.
The specimens underwent a 10% methylene blue staining process, subsequent to restoration edge sealing using nail polish. Stain penetration assessment was done after 4 distance setting procedures; the results were then statistically processed by means of the 2 test, employed
to determine the existing correlations between the
technique used and the percolation achieved.
The first (A bulk) method had strong correlations with the 3rd degree percolation and with type 2 + 3 percolations. Method C showed correlations with 0 and 0 +1 percolations. Conclusions None of these insertion methods provided perfect sealing of the gingival border; however the best method was the oblique layering technique.