Fluorescence-aided Composite Removal in Directly Restored Permanent Posterior Teeth.

AIM

The aim of this study was to quantitatively compare conventional composite removal and composite removal supported by the fluorescence-aided identification technique (FIT) regarding the completeness, selectivity, and duration of the procedure in directly restored permanent posterior teeth.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Two operators removed standardized direct class II composite restorations (n=32 per operator) in human tooth models under simulated clinical conditions. According to a randomized allocation scheme, removal was performed with either the conventional technique (contra-angle handpiece) or supported by FIT. The duration of each removal procedure was recorded. The completeness and selectivity were volumetrically assessed through superimposition of three-dimensional surface scans. Statistical significance was tested by examining the overlap of 95% confidence intervals (CI). Multiple comparison was performed with Tukey tests for each variable.

RESULTS

Compared with the conventional technique, composite removal with FIT was faster (329 seconds [95% confidence interval (CI): 268-390 seconds] vs 179 seconds [95% CI: 150-208 seconds]), generated less tooth substance loss (4.53 mm [95% CI: 3.77-5.30 mm] vs 2.77 mm [95% CI: 2.11-3.43 mm]), and left behind less composite residue (1.58 mm [95% CI: 1.23-1.94 mm] vs 0.53 mm [95% CI: 0.39-0.67 mm]).

CONCLUSION

Within the limitations of this study, FIT facilitated the selective and expeditious removal of tooth-colored composites in directly restored posterior teeth.