The effect of posterior composite restorations on the resistance of cavity walls to vertically applied occlusal loads

Abstract

The resistance of the cavity walls of non-vital premolars to vertically applied occlusal forces was studied. Standardized MOD cavities were prepared, restored, and vertical forces were applied to each of the cuspal tips by the Instron machine. Results suggest that bevelled etched-enamel margins and dentine-bonded posterior composite resin restorations significantly improved (by 33%) the resistance of the remaining cavity walls compared to amalgam restorations. In a control group, in which no restorations were carried out in the prepared cavities, the resistance of the walls was significantly smaller than in both restored groups.