Comparative Evaluation of Shear Bond Strength of Nanohybrid Composite Restoration After the Placement of Flowable Compomer and Composite Using the Snowplow Technique

Aim: Based on the importance of bonding during restoration, this in vitro study aimed to evaluate the difference in shear bond strength of nanohybrid composite restoration in molars after the placement of flowable compomer and composite using the snowplow technique. Materials and methods: Twenty-four freshly extracted molars were taken and sectioned at the level of 2.5 mm from the coronal cusp and root tip. These sections were embedded in methacrylate and, after etching and bonding, were randomly divided into two groups (n=12) for placement of restorative materials. In group A, the plastic tube was filled with uncured flowable composite resin followed by the placement of packable nanohybrid composite in oblique increments. In group B, the plastic tube was filled with uncured flowable compomer followed by the placement of packable nanohybrid composite in oblique increments. Each specimen was then tested under a universal testing machine to determine the shear bond strength. Results: Independent sample 't' test revealed a statistically significant difference between the mean shear bond strength of compomer and composite (P value<0.001), where flowable composite showed higher values compared to compomer. Conclusion: It was seen that the use of composite showed a significantly better bond strength of the restoration when compared to compomer using the snowplow technique. Both materials and application techniques can influence the bond strength of a material as determined in this study.