Effect of resin viscosity and enamel beveling on the clinical performance of Class V composite restorations: three-year results

This study evaluated the effect of the elastic modulus and margin configuration on the clinical performance of resin-based composite restorations in Class V non-carious defects. One hundred and five cervical non-carious defects on buccal surfaces of canines and premolars were included in this study. Defects were randomly divided into three Groups and restored according to the following techniques: Group 1--no enamel bevel was placed and the defect was restored with a microfilled resin-based composite (Durafill VS); Group 2--the enamel margin was beveled and the defect restored as in Group 1; Group 3-the enamel margin was beveled and the defect was restored with a flowable resin-based composite (Natural Flow). Each group comprised 35 lesions. A total-etch, one-bottle adhesive (One-Step) was used in all groups. Retention rate, pre- and post-operative sensitivity, marginal discoloration and secondary caries were determined over a three-year period and the data were analyzed statistically. At six months post-insertion, the restorations placed with beveled enamel margins resulted in 100% retention regardless of the composite used compared to a 66% retention of the non-beveled margins. At two and three years, no significant difference in retention rate was found among the three groups. Post-operative sensitivity, marginal discoloration and secondary caries were not affected by enamel beveling and restorative material. Beveled enamel margins resulted in significantly better clinical retention in the first six months only. Enamel beveling and composite viscosity appeared to not significantly affect the clinical performance of Class V non-retentive composite restorations after three years.