Properties of packable dental composites

Kyoung Kyu Choi, Jack L. Ferracane, Thomas J. Hilton, David Charlton

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

93 Scopus citations

Abstract

The introduction of many new packable composites suggests that these products are rapidly gaining popularity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the in vitro properties of a variety of packable composites and to determine if significant enhancements in physical and mechanical properties have been achieved for these materials compared with two popular nonpackable posterior composites. For the five packable and two regular composites tested (ALERT, Pyramid-Dentin, Pyramid-Enamel, Solitaire, SureFil, Heliomolar, and Z100), the values for fracture toughness, flexure strength, flexure modulus, hardness, and volumetric polymerization shrinkage were determined. In general, although the packable composites were of heavier consistency, they had mechanical properties that were intermediate to (ALERT, Pyramid, and SureFil) or lower than (Solitaire) those of the nonpackable materials. These results could have been predicted based on the similar meth-acrylate resin chemistry and filler volumes of the various composites. No composite had adequate depth-of-cure when tested in increments greater than 2 mm thick. Polymerization contraction of the packable composites was similar to or higher than that of the nonpackable composites. In addition, the radiopacity of at least one material, Solitaire, was not considered to be adequate (less than 2 mm of aluminum). The results of this study suggest that these packable composites are unlikely to offer improved clinical performance over well-placed nonpackable composites. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE. Packable composites have physical and mechanical properties that are similar to those of nonpackable posterior composites and are, therefore, expected to provide equivalent clinical performance.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)216-226
Number of pages11
JournalJournal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry
Volume12
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 2000

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Dentistry

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Properties of packable dental composites'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this