Can modern restorative procedures and materials reliably seal cavities? In vitro investigations. Part 1.

Secondary caries, marginal discoloration and marginal gap/fracture account for a significant majority of clinical diagnoses of restoration failure and reason for restoration replacement. These failures occur at the interface between the restoration and the cavity preparation. It is an underlying belief, or at least an underlying assumption of the dental profession, that improving the seal between a restorative material and tooth structure will reduce the frequency of such occurrences, which will in turn lead to enhanced restoration longevity. This paper reviews the current status of in vitro literature regarding the ability of modern restorative materials and techniques to reliably seal cavity preparations. In addition, methodology for accomplishing in vitro research is reviewed for the purpose of elucidating trends, areas of interest and controversial topics.