Retrospective cross-sectional radiographic assessment of the quality of posterior composite restorations and prevalence of associated periodontal changes

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of the type of errors associated with inadequate restorations and the prevalence of periodontal changes associated with disease in the inadequate restorations. Materials and Method: Two hundred and eighty digital panoramic radiographs were evaluated by two independent observers. Teeth with interproximal restorations being observed on these examinations were classified according to the tooth restored, the quality of interproximal restoration and the presence of periodontal changes. Results: Out of the 4480 teeth evaluated 38% had restorations and among those 47% were considered to be inadequate by the evaluators. The main error detected was an over contoured (42%) followed by under contoured (31%) restoration. Periodontal changes were associated with 69% of the inadequate restorations and more of the molars had problems when compared to premolars. Conclusion: This study has investigated the prevalence of periodontal changes associated with posterior proximal composite resin restorations. It has found a high association between the presence of periodontal changes and proximal restorations and also that the restorations in molars tend to have more problems than premolars.