In vitro inhibition of caries around a resin composite restoration containing antibacterial filler.

Class V cavities were prepared and restored with resin composite containing antibacterial filler powder (Apacider-AW, Ap-AW) using experimental restorations. The restored teeth were incubated in vitro with the cariogenic bacteria Streptococcus mutans IFO 13955. Ground sections were then prepared and examined using macrophotography. Lesions of the outer and inner wall were noted, and the depths of which the lesions penetrated were measured. We found that, in restorations containing 1-5 wt% Ap-AW, caries penetrated the marginal area, while in restorations containing 10 wt% Ap-AW the margin remained free of caries out to a distance of about 1.1 and 1.8 mm on the occlusal and gingival sides, respectively.