Silorane-Based Composite: Depth of Cure, Surface Hardness, Degree of Conversion, and Cervical Microleakage in Class II Cavities

ABSTRACT Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the depth of cure, degree of conversion (DC), hardness, and cervical sealing ability of silorane‐based composite (Filtek Silorane [FS; 3M, Seefeld, Germany]) and to compare with methacrylate‐based composites (MBCs = Filtek Supreme XT [FSXT] and Filtek P60 [FP60]). Materials and Methods: The DC and hardness of every material were evaluated after 1, 7, and 30 days. The depth of cure was determined using the ISO 4049:2000 standard. Microleakage was evaluated by measuring dye penetration across the gingival wall in cross‐sectioned specimens. Results: FS showed lower depth of cure than FSXT and FP60. The DC of FS was significantly lower when compared to FP60 and FSXT. FS exhibited lower hardness than both FSXT and FP60 after 1 day of storage. The hardness of FS remained unchanged during the storage period. FS showed reduced microleakage scores compared to FSXT and showed similar microleakage scores compared to FP60. Conclusions: In conclusion, the DC and cure depth of FS are lower than those of MBCs. However, FS revealed stable hardness in water that is comparable to MBCs. The sealing ability of FS is similar or even better than that of MBCs. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE Filtek Silorane can be used as an alternative to methacrylate‐based composites because of its good sealing ability and stable hardness results. However, Filtek Silorane showed the lowest depth of cure, therefore clinicians should avoid thicker increments when working with Filtek Silorane. (J Esthet Restor Dent 23:324–337, 2011)