Is the wear of dental composites still a clinical concern? Is there still a need for in vitro wear simulating devices?
While once considered a major concern for posterior restorations, wear of dental composites has been substantially reduced by changes in formulation and is considered today by many to be a solved problem. However, minimal evidence exists in the literature to support this conclusion for large restorations, especially those involving the replacement of functional cusps, despite the fact that these restorations are routinely performed. Evidence shows that wear may be of minimal importance for restorations of small to moderate size. However, the literature does suggest that failure rates are higher for larger restorations, and that wear may still be a significant mode of failure for patients with bruxing and clenching habits. In this light, the wear of composites continues to be studied by many researchers, and it is justifiable to seek well-defined and reproducible in vitro methods for predicting this multifactorial phenomenon.
Division of Biomaterials and Biomechanics, Department of Restorative Dentistry, Oregon Health & Science University, 611 S.W. Campus Drive, Portland, OR 97239, USA. ferracan@ohsu.edu
Jack L
JL
Ferracane
D002012:Bruxism / Q000503:physiopathology; D002626:Chemistry, Pharmaceutical; D003188:Composite Resins / Q000737:chemistry*; D003764:Dental Materials / Q000737:chemistry*; D019232:Dental Restoration Failure; D019554:Dental Restoration Wear; D003793:Dental Restoration, Permanent / Q000145:classification; D006801:Humans; D008422:Materials Testing / Q000295:instrumentation*; D013314:Stress, Mechanical; D013499:Surface Properties
D003188:Composite Resins; D003764:Dental Materials