Measurement of the Deflection of Dentin Disks Under a Condensation Type of Load.

A model was constructed to simulate a one surface cavity preparation. Dentin disks of varying thickness served as the pulpal floor of the model. The deflection of the cavity floor was monitored when forces of the type used in condensing amalgam and gold foil restorations were applied. Deflection of the dentin occurred under this type of loading. The amount depended on the magnitude of the load and thickness of the dentin. A cement base reduced the deflection of the cavity floor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]