Effect of filler fraction and filler surface treatment on wear of microfilled composites

Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the effect of filler content and surface treatment on the wear of microfilled composites. Methods: Four microfilled composites with different filler contents (A=20, B=25, C=30, and D=35vol.%) were made with a light-cured resin (Bis-GMA/UDMA/TEGDMA). The surface treatment of the colloidal silica in each varied: F=functional silane, NF=non-functional silane, U=untreated. Silux Plus served as a control. Specimens were made in steel molds and cured in a light curing unit Triad II (40s/side). Abrasion and attrition wear were evaluated in vitro in a wear tester (OHSU oral wear simulator) with an abrasive slurry (poppy seeds+PMMA) and a human enamel antagonist. The average of five specimens was computed and compared using a ANOVA/Tukey's test at P≤0.05. The surface of the wear patterns and the distribution of filler particles were examined using a scanning electron microscope and digital imaging. Results: As filler volume increased, wear was reduced regardless of filler treatment. Amounts of wear for specimens C and D were significantly lower than specimens A and B. Composites with functional silane treated microfiller (Group F) produced significantly less wear than those with non-functional microfiller (Group NF) at 30 and 35vol.%, and less than the untreated microfiller (Group U) at 30vol.%. Scanning electron microscopy of specimens of group NF showed large filler agglomerates (size >1μm) in the resin matrix, while specimens of group F and U showed fewer agglomerates. Digital imaging analysis revealed small filler clusters (size ≤1μm) in the resin matrix of all specimens. Significance: Wear resistance of microfilled composites is enhanced by higher filler volumes irrespective of surface treatment, but good filler/matrix adhesion is needed to minimize wear.