Comparative clinical evaluation of a self-adhering flowable composite with conventional flowable composite in Class I cavity: An in vivo study

CONTEXT: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of self-adhering flowable composite with that of a time-tested conventional flowable composite. Since the self-adhering composite reduces chair time and is convenient to use, its clinical behavior was monitored for a year. AIM: This study aimed to evaluate the clinical behavior of self-adhering flowable composite – Fusio Liquid Dentin – in small-sized Class I cavities and also to compare it with conventional flowable composite – Tetric N-Flow – bonded to the tooth structure with fifth-generation two-step-etch-and-rinse adhesive. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A total of 60 cavities were restored using flowable composite materials (30 cavities in each group) and evaluated at baseline, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year with modified United States Public Health Service criteria. The statistical analysis for the study was done using Fisher's exact test for intergroup comparison and Chi-square test for intragroup comparison. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Statistically no significant differences were observed in Fusio Liquid Dentin restorations during the recall visits. Statistically significant differences were found in color match evaluated for Tetric restorations during the recall visits. CONCLUSION: Based on the data acquired, the novel self-adhering composite material demonstrated good clinical behavior. As a result, at this point in the prospective clinical study, the use of Fusio Liquid Dentin to repair Class I cavities is acceptable.