The disadvantage of proximal composite resin restorations on posterior teeth is their poor marginal seal at
the gingival border. In order to increase marginal adjustment, we proposed the application of a low viscosity
flowable composite resin layer using the snowplow procedure. The study was conducted in order to assess marginal seal of the enamel walls in the occlusal areas and of the dentine walls on the enamel/ cement junction of resin restorations in posterior teeth, performed using a traditional approach and the snowplow procedure. Material and method: We used 40 whole premolars extracted for various reasons, on which we performed standard mesial and distal cavities. The teeth were divided into 4 study groups, on 2 of them we used traditional resins and on the remaining 2 we used the same material but with a flowable resin applied using the snowplow procedure. The teeth were subjected to a methylene blue stain protocol, then the cut-through restorations were assessed depending on the stain penetration level, according to a standardized system. Results were assessed using the Kruskal-Wallis statistical test, the penetration values being compared both in the occlusal and gingival area, and from the viewpoint of the techniques employed in the same area.
Conclusions. None of the materials or techniques used prevented marginal leakage, however the snowplow procedure used to apply a flowable composite resin on the gingival walls significantly reduced marginal leakage at the gingival border.
- flowable composite
- gingival wall
- microleakage
- posterior composite resin restorations