Effect of Mechanical Loads and Surface Roughness on Wear of Silorane and Methacrylate-Based Posterior Composites

Objectives: Dental composite wear in posterior restorations is a concern and is affected by different factors. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of polishing and mechanical loads on wear of silorane-based and methyl methacrylate-based composites resins. Materials and Methods: Of each dental composite (Filtek P90 and Filtek P60), 40 samples were fabricated in a polyethylene mold (4mm diameter, 10mm height). According to the finishing and/or polishing protocols (180-grit or 2500-grit silicon carbide papers), the samples of each composite were divided into two groups. Surface roughness (Rₔ) was measured and recorded using a contact profilometer. The weight of each sample was also measured in grams. The wear test was performed in a pin-on-disc device under two different loads (70N, 150N). Afterwards, samples were subjected to profilometry and their weight was measured again. Data were analyzed using t-test and univariate ANOVA. P <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Higher mechanical load resulted in greater weight loss (P<0.001). Samples polished with 2500-grit papers showed significantly lower Ra changes compared to those polished with 180-grit papers (P<0.001). Filtek P90 had greater weight loss than Filtek P60 except in one condition (180-grit, 70N). Conclusions: Results showed that wear of posterior composite restorations depends on mechanical load, type of composite resin and surface properties.