Influence of light irradiation on the volumetric change of polyacid-modified resin composites.

Objectives: Recently, a new restorative material called a 'compomer', which is classified as a polyacid-modified resin composite, has become available. The volumetric shrinkage of compomers may create marginal gaps that influence the bonding ability and longevity of a restoration. Since compomers have been introduced recently, their volumetric change during curing is not fully understood. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the volumetric change of compomers.
Methods: Three compomers, Compoglass (Vivadent), Dyract (Dentsply), and Ionosit Fil (DMG) were employed. The material was placed into a Teflon mould, 4 mm in diameter and 2 mm height, and extruded into the dilatometer. Then the specimens were light activated and the change in the height of the meniscus of water was recorded using a CCD camera and VRC.
Results: The average volumetric shrinkages of the compomers after 160 s were 2.4% for Compoglass, 2.7% for Dyract, and 2.1% for Ionosit-Fil. For all materials tested, there was a tendency of increasing volumetric shrinkage with increased irradiation time.
Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that the volumetric change of compomer is influenced by the duration of light exposure, light intensity, and environmental conditions to which the materials are exposed.