title: Performance of 2 packable composites at 12 months.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The purpose of this randomized, double-blind, clinical trial was to compare the marginal seal of 2 packable resin composite materials in moderate to large lesions on molars.
  
  
  METHODS
  Fifty participants in need of a moderate to large Class 2 or complex Class 1 molar restoration were randomly distributed into 4 groups, to receive either Alert (Jeneric/Pentron) or SureFil (Dentsply/Caulk) resin composite with or without a surface sealer. Each participant received one restoration. With the exception that study protocol limited increments to no more than 4 mm, teeth were restored according to the manufacturers' instructions, and surface sealer was applied after finishing in the designated groups. Use of Alert includes routine placement of a flowable composite liner. Clinical performance of the restorations was evaluated in 8 categories at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months. The 2 materials were compared to determine if a difference in marginal seal existed between groups. The number of restorations exhibiting marginal staining was compared using Fischer's exact test at a significance level of 5%.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Six participants did not present for the 12-month recall. At 12 months, 19 (90.5%) Alert restorations and 15 (68.2%) SureFil restorations did not exhibit marginal staining. There was no statistically significant difference between the 2 restorative materials for marginal staining. Overall, 3 restorations were rated as failures.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  At 12 months, materials placed with a flowable liner were not associated with a significant reduction in marginal staining.
authors: Department of Oral Rehabilitation, School of Dentistry, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, Georgia 30912-1260, USA. wbrownin@mail.mcg.edu
authors: William D
authors: WD
authors: Browning
authors: Michael L
authors: ML
authors: Myers
authors: Daniel C
authors: DC
authors: Chan
authors: Mary C
authors: MC
authors: Downey
authors: Randal M
authors: RM
authors: Pohjola
authors: Kevin B
authors: KB
authors: Frazier