INDIRECT COMPOSITE RESTORATIONS IN THE POSTERIOR REGION. CASE REPORTS

Objectives: Techniques relying on the use of II generation laboratory composites to carry out indirect restorations ensure long-lasting and predictable results also in posterior teeth. The evolution of restorative materials and adhesive systems improved chemical-physical characteristics of resins (resistance to stress and to wear, hardness) and allowed to perform bonded restorations that respect the biologic and aesthetic principles. Methods: We have clinically evaluated different types of indirect composite restorations (inlay, onlay and overlay) performed to treat carious lesions in posterior teeth. After analyzing occlusion and structural factors, the treatment plan included the cavity preparation and, if necessary, a preliminary build-up with a nano-hybrid composite (Filtek Supreme, 3M ESPE). After cavity preparation, indirect composite restorations were fabricated using post-polymerized laboratory composite (Sinfony, 3M ESPE). The following cementation procedure was carried out with the same adhesive system and composite resin used in the preliminary build-up step. Results: According to our clinical evaluation, the operative protocols applied have proved to be efficient, versatile and simple to perform, providing effective solutions for all the analyzed cases. The technique we have standardized allowed to obtain satisfactory results both for functional and aesthetic aspects. Conclusion: indirect composite restorations allow maximum preservation of sound dental structure, better plaque control, good marginal seal and high resistance of the tooth-restoration complex, because of the homogeneous biomechanical properties of the different parts of the restoration.