The stamp technique is a biomimetic approach that enables accurate reproduction of preoperative occlusal morphology in direct composite restorations; however, the rheological properties of restorative materials may influence both morphological adaptation and wear behavior. This in vitro study aimed to evaluate the morphological accuracy of different composite resins applied using the stamp technique and to quantify volumetric changes after toothbrushing simulation using three-dimensional analysis. Sixty standardized mandibular first molar model teeth were assigned to four groups (n = 15): Filtek Z250, Filtek One Bulk Fill, SonicFill 3, and G-ænial Universal Injectable. Digital scans were obtained at baseline, after restoration, and after brushing, and analyzed using OraCheck software to calculate volumetric gain (T0–T1) and volumetric loss (T1–T2). Significant differences were observed among groups for both outcomes (p < 0.001). G-ænial Universal Injectable showed the highest morphological accuracy but also the greatest wear, whereas SonicFill demonstrated lower morphological accuracy with superior wear resistance. No significant correlation was found across all groups; however, within each group, restorations with lower morphological accuracy tended to exhibit greater wear. These findings indicate that morphological accuracy and wear resistance are material-dependent and suggest that achieving a balance between accurate reproduction and long-term preservation of occlusal morphology remains a challenge.
This in vitro study evaluated the effect of exposure duration (5, 20, and 40 days) to constant increased ambient pressure (2.4 atmospheres absolute; ATA) on microleakage at the dentin–composite interface of teeth restored with two bulk-fill composites. Specimens stored in distilled water at atmospheric pressure (1 atm) served as controls. A total of 192 extracted human molars with standardized Class V cavities were randomly assigned to two groups: sonic-activated bulk-fill composite (SonicFill) or conventional bulk-fill composite (Filtek One Bulk Fill). Each group was subdivided into controls maintained under atmospheric pressure (1 atm) and specimens under hyperbaric pressure (2.4 ATA), and exposed for 5, 20, or 40 days (total of 12 groups, n = 16 per group). Microleakage was assessed using the dye penetration method and scored under a stereomicroscope according to ISO criteria. Statistical analyses were performed using Fisher’s Exact chi-squared and Fisher–Freeman–Halton Exact tests (α = 0.05). No significant differences were found between materials or pressure conditions at 5 and 20 days (p > 0.05). After 40 days, both composites showed significantly higher microleakage at increased pressure than atmospheric controls (p < 0.05). Microleakage increased over time in the hyperbaric groups, while no time-dependent changes occurred at atmospheric pressure. After 40 days, prolonged exposure to elevated pressure increased microleakage, whereas shorter exposure produced no significant changes. Both materials demonstrated similar susceptibility to pressure-related deterioration.
The biomimetic restoration of occlusal morphology aims to replicate the natural form and function of dental tissues while preserving structural integrity. The stamp technique enables accurate reproduction of occlusal anatomy in posterior restorations; however, the extent to which different composite systems maintain marginal integrity and reduce microleakage when this technique is applied remains unclear. This in vitro study evaluated the microleakage of bulk-fill resin composites with different viscosities applied using the stamp technique. A total of 120 extracted human molars (n = 10 per group) were prepared with standardized Class I and Class II cavities and restored using SonicFill™, VisCalor, or Filtek™ Bulk-Fill composites, applied either in a single or two increments. After thermocycling, specimens were dye-penetrated, sectioned, and analyzed using ImageJ. Data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s HSD test (p < 0.05). In Class I cavities, occlusal microleakage differed significantly among materials (p = 0.001), with SonicFill™ showing the lowest values. In Class II cavities, gingival microleakage was significantly affected by both material and placement technique (p = 0.001). Incremental placement significantly reduced gingival microleakage for SonicFill™ and Filtek™ Bulk-Fill. Material viscosity and placement strategy influence marginal adaptation under stamp technique conditions. Low-viscosity bulk-fill composites demonstrated improved sealing, while incremental placement enhanced marginal integrity, particularly in Class II cavities.