Effect of cavity preparation instruments (oscillating or rotating) on the composite–dentin interface in primary teeth

Objectives: To evaluate the effect of preparation of instruments on the interfacial integrity between cavity wall and composite restoration. Methods: Two class II slot preparations were done in 10 primary teeth either with SonicSys® or with a conventional bur. The cavities were filled using an adhesive system. One layer of a flowable composite and one layer of a condensable composite were applied. The specimens were analyzed by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Results: In the SonicSys® group the mean thickness of the hybrid layer was 6.12 (0.60) μm; in the control group it was 6.04 (0.63) μm. The difference was not statistically significant. Two fractures were observed in one tooth of each group. These were located only in the enamel. The cavity margins were beveled in all specimens. Significance: Compared to conventional preparations, cavity preparation with SonicSys® has no deleterious effect on the integrity of the interface.