Evaluation of microtensile bond strength and marginal adaptation of fiber-reinforced composites

Abstract

Background: Long-term durability of a restoration relies on the marginal integrity and its ability to withstand the occlusal forces. Fiber-reinforced composites (FRCs) exhibited superior properties in terms of fracture toughness, flexural strength, and wear resistance. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess and compare marginal adaptation and microtensile bond strength (µTBS) of posterior FRCs comparing with a condensable composite. Materials and Methods: Standardized mesio- and disto-occlusal cavities were prepared on 60 maxillary molars with 3.5 mm pulpal floor depth, 3 mm buccolingual width, and 1.5 mm axial depth. The mesial cavities were restored with everX Posterior and Build-It FRCs, while distal cavities of all teeth were restored with Alert composite and were thermomechanically aged. Half of the specimens from each group (n = 15) were evaluated for marginal adaptation under scanning electron microscope (SEM), and the other half were sectioned for μTBS testing with Instron testing machine. Bond failure mode was examined under SEM. Results: Marginal microgaps were significantly high for the Alert group than FRC groups. Gingival surface showed more gaps. Mean µTBS values were significantly high for FRCs. Cohesive failures are more among FRCs, and adhesive failures are more in condensable composite. Conclusion: The short FRCs showed superior marginal adaptation and better bond strength than condensable composite.