Effects of composite restorations on resistance to cuspal fracture in posterior teeth.

A clinically acceptable MOD cavity preparation was used instead of a jig-mounted slot preparation in this investigation. Each preparation was proportional to the tooth dimension. The design of the testing instrument ensured that forces applied to the specimens were applied to tooth structure and not to the restorative material. Prepared unrestored teeth were weaker than restored teeth. No significant difference was noted in fracture resistance between teeth restored with amalgam and with composite resin. The method used in this study is replicable, allowing the possibility of comparison studies by using identical procedures. Future research will focus on issues of polymerization method and modulus of elasticity and their effects on fracture resistance of remaining tooth structure.