Effect of cusp coverage and water storage on compressive strength of composite restorations of premolars.

Background: The aim of this study was to assess the effect of cusp coverage and water storage on compressive strength of composite restorations.

Material And Methods: This experimental study was conducted on 40 extracted human maxillary premolar teeth, which were randomly divided into four groups of 10. Mesio-occluso-distal (MOD) cavities were prepared in all teeth. The thickness of composite for cusp coverage was 1.5 mm in groups 1 and 3 and 2.5 mm in groups 2 and 4. Compressive strength (CS) was measured after 24 hours in groups 1 and 2 and after six months of water storage in groups 3 and 4. Two-way ANOVA was used to statistically analyze the data.

Results: The mean and standard error (SE) of compressive strength was 795.23 ± 35.18N in Group 1, 1232.52 ± 78.01N in Group 2, 617.18 ± 40.19N in Group 3 and 963.22 ± 50.05N in Group 4.

Conclusions: Statistical analysis showed a significant difference in compressive strength measured after 24 hours (groups 1 and 3) and after six months of water storage (groups 2 and 4). The compressive strength of groups with 2.5 mm cusp coverage was significantly greater than that of groups with 1.5 mm cusp coverage. Fracture strength, cusp coverage, water absorption, composite resin, compressive strength.