Abstract:
The importance and demand for aesthetics has resulted in an increase in tooth-coloured restorations in dental practice. Composite undergoes polymerization using a curing device, after which it gains its physical and aesthetic properties. An improperly cured composite restoration is weak and prone to discolouration and secondary decay. The aim of this study was to determine and compare the effect that composite shade and curing distance would have on the depth of cure (DOC) of composite Filtek Silorane, Filtek Supreme XT and Z100. The scrape and penetrometer techniques were used to determine the DOC of the 450 specimens prepared. The DOC decreased with an increase in the curing distance and the darker shade had a lower DOC than the lighter shade for each of the composites tested. Both the scrape and penetrometer techniques yielded similar results in the DOC. Z100 had the highest DOC followed by Supreme XT and lastly Silorane. Thus a lighter composite shade in posterior teeth (non-aesthetic zone) and in deep Class II cavities will ensure an optimal depth of cure. The curing distance should be minimal and as close as possible to the composite surface to achieve an optimal depth of cure.
