Flowable composites as alternative materials for the restoration of noncarious cervical lesions

Abstract

Noncarious cervical lesions (NCCLs) are defined by the loss of hard dental tissues localized at the cervical area of the teeth, having different etiology as compared to carious lesions. They occupy an important place in dental pathology and can be a real challenge for the specialist in terms of diagnosis and treatment plan. The management of all the etiological factors involved in their occurrence, as well as the selection of the ideal restorative materials and techniques still remain controversial topics. NCCLs have a significant negative impact on dental and periodontal health while certain histo-morphological features make both the diagnosis and treatment phases difficult. The NCCLs clinical approach involves the identification and elimination of all ethiological and risk factors involved in their occurrence and the actual restoration of lost dental tissues. Both the characteristics of the lesion and the proximity of the periodontal tissues should be considered when choosing the working protocols and materials in order to maintain the periodontal health. The behaviour and specific features of composite materials derive from their composition and structure. Their major disadvantage is the polymerization shrinkage, which negatively influences the clinical performance of restorations, especially in the case of NCCLs. The aim of this article is to highlight certain important aspects regarding the properties and performance of flowable composites in restoring NCCLs.

Keywords

• composite resin
• restoration
• retention rate
• polymerization shrinkage