Microleakage Evaluation of Two Different Fabricated Composite Inlays: An in vitro Study

Abstract

The clinical longevity of tooth-coloured restorations, whether direct or indirect, mainly depends on the strength of the restoration, marginal fit, and its bond strength to the tooth structures. This In vitro study investigates the extent of microleakage in composite inlays fabricated using two different indirect techniques: conventional manual fabrication and advanced 3D printing. Twenty multirooted extracted human teeth were prepared with standardised inlay cavities and divided into two groups. The samples were randomly divided into groups of indirect restorations fabricated using a conventional technique and 3D printing. Group 1 restorations were made using conventional impressions and layered composite resin, while Group 2 employed digital scanning and additive manufacturing (AM) to produce inlays. All restorations were cemented using self-adhesive resin cement and evaluated under a stereomicroscope following dye penetration with 1% methylene blue. The study revealed significantly lower vertical and angular microleakage in the 3D printed group, indicating superior marginal adaptation. These results highlight the clinical potential of 3D printed composite restorations in reducing polymerisation shrinkage and enhancing marginal integrity. The findings underscore the evolving role of digital and additive technologies in restorative dentistry, promising improved accuracy, efficiency, and patient outcomes. Dentistry is currently witnessing the beginnings of the additive age, where promising processes are developing in parallel. It is still uncertain which of these processes will ultimately prevail.