In vivo evaluation of different techniques for establishment of proximal contacts in posterior resin composite restorations

Aim: To evaluate the re-establishment of proximal contacts on class II resin composite restorations by means of 4 different in vivo techniques. Methods: Restorations were divided into 4 groups (N=10): Group 1 (preformed metallic matrix + wooden wedges + separating ring); Group 2 (preformed metallic matrix + elastic interdental wedges+ separating ring); Group 3 (preformed metallic matrix + wooden wedges + translucent contact spatula); Group 4 (preformed metallic matrix + wooden wedges + resin inserts). Initially, two previously calibrated examiners conducted training on models representing three different proximal contact situations: tight (T); satisfactory (S) and unacceptable (U). Two evaluations were accomplished: immediately and 30 days after the restorative procedures. Fisher’s exact test was used to verify differences among the techniques for establishment of proximal contacts in posterior resin composite restorations. Results: There was no statistically significant differences (p>0.05) among the 4 groups. Conclusions: All techniques produced satisfactory proximal contacts. Different restorative techniques for class II resin composite cavity preparations enabled satisfactory proximal contacts.