Volumetric change due to polymerization in dental resins as measured with an electronic mercury dilatometer

Abstract

To determine the total volumetric change and the relative speed of shrinkage of bulk fill flowable composites during polymerization. The volumetric change that occur during the polymerization of dental composite restorations are considered to be one of the most significant contributing factors when considering the failure in composite restorations. Volumetric shrinkage of more than 2% is considered to be enough to result in the occurrence of secondary caries resulting in fracture of restorations and failure in the adhesive layer of a resin restoration. The total volumetric change of dental resins can be attributed to three main factors: Firstly, the polymerization reaction that results in the formation of a polymer chain. Secondly, the increase of the exothermic thermal effects produced by the polymerization reaction and thirdly, light irradiance energy that is transferred to the dental resin.