A comparison between the microleakage of direct and indirect composite restorative systems

The present study compares the microleakage of direct and indirect restorations. Two dentine bonding agents were evaluated with both techniques. Class V cavities, approximately 2 mm in depth and 4 mm in diameter, were prepared in extracted human molars. Cavities were placed in either mesial or distal surfaces and were centred at the amelodentinal junction. Microleakage was rated after silver nitrate staining. With both dentine bonding agents, the indirect method resulted in significantly ( P < 0·001) reduced microleakage. Choice of adhesive for the indirect method was also significant, perhaps due to polymerization shrinkage of the composite cement used for placement. It is suggested that the indirect method may be less technique sensitive and less dependent on the early bond strengths of different adhesives.