Comparison of marginal microleakage of flowable composite restorations in primary molars prepared by high-speed carbide bur, Er:YAG laser, and air abrasion.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to assess in vitro the influence of 3 cavity preparation devices (carbide bur, Er:YAG laser, and air abrasion) on the microleakage of flowable composite restorations in primary teeth.

METHODS

Fifteen primary second molars were selected, and Class V cavities were prepared on the buccal/lingual surfaces, being assigned to 3 groups (n= 10). Group 1 (control) was prepared using a high-speed handpiece and was acid etched. Group 2 was prepared and treated with a Er:YAG laser (400mJ/4Hz and 80mJ/4Hz, respectively) and was acid etched. Group 3 was prepared and treated with an air abrasion system and was acid etched. Cavities were restored and stored for 7 days. Restorations were polished, thermocycled, immersed in 0.2% rhodamine B, sectioned, and analyzed for leakage.

RESULTS

Er:YAG laser-prepared cavities showed the highest degree of infiltration. The performance of the air abrasion device was comparable to that of the high-speed handpiece.

CONCLUSION

It may be concluded that the method of cavity preparation affected the microleakage of Class V cavities restored with flowable composite in primary teeth.