Stress relieving behaviour of flowable composite liners: A finite element analysis

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the consequences of using flowable composite as a liner beneath class I resin composite restorations on polymerization shrinkage stress and occlusal force. Models of class I resin composite restorations were generated. A control model received no flowable composite liner. Thirteen test models received different flowable composite liners with varying elastic modulus. Finite element analysis was used. The polymerization shrinkage of the resin composite and an occlusal force were simulated in the models. The stress and strain energy density in each model were investigated. The results demonstrated that all flowable composite linings were able to reduce polymerization shrinkage stress and occlusal force in enamel, dentin, the hybrid layer, and the adhesive layer to various degrees in tooth-restoration systems. Therefore, additional techniques may be applied to reduce the remaining stress and to ensure the long-term success of restorations.