Effect of polishing on the microleakage of three different restorative materials: An in vitro study.

Aims and Objectives: The purpose of this in vitro study was to investigate the effect of polishing systems on the microleakage of three different restorative materials (Ketac Molar Easymix, Ketac N100 and Filtek P90). Materials and Methods: Class V cavities were prepared at the cemento-enamel junction of 60 freshly extracted premolars. The prepared teeth were randomly divided into three groups and restored with the three materials. The restored teeth were stored in distilled water at 37°C for 1 week. The restored teeth were then divided into two subgroups (polished and not polished) of 10. Finishing and polishing of the polished group was done using the Sof-Lex polishing system. Furthermore, all the restorations were subjected to dye penetration testing. Results: Results showed that maximum microleakage was observed for the not polished group of Filtek P90 and least levels of microleakage were seen for the polished group of Ketac Molar Easymix. Conclusion: There was a significant difference seen when Ketac Molar Easymix was compared with Ketac N100 and Filtek P90 in terms of the extent of microleakage exhibited on polishing of the three materials; with the former exhibiting the least microleakage scores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]