Low-Shrinkage Resin Matrices in Restorative Dentistry-Narrative Review

Dimethacrylate-based resin composites restorations have become widely-used intraoral materials in daily dental practice. The increasing use of composites has greatly enhanced modern preventive and conservative dentistry. They have many superior features, especially esthetic properties, bondability, and elimination of mercury and galvanic currents. However, polymeric materials are highly susceptible to polymerization shrinkage and stresses that lead to microleakage, biofilm formation, secondary caries, and restoration loss. Several techniques have been investigated to minimize the side effects of these shrinkage stresses. The primary approach is through fabrications and modification of the resin matrices. Therefore, this review article focuses on the methods for testing the shrinkage, as well as formulations of resinous matrices available to reduce polymerization shrinkage and its associated stress. Furthermore, this article reviews recent cutting-edge developments on bioactive low-shrinkage-stress nanocomposites to effectively inhibit the growth and activities of cariogenic pathogens and enhance the remineralization process.

Automated summary

Dimethacrylate-based resin composites are widely used in dental practice due to their esthetic properties, bondability, and elimination of mercury and galvanic currents. However, polymerization shrinkage and stresses can cause issues such as microleakage and secondary caries. This review article focuses on methods to test shrinkage and formulations of resinous matrices to reduce polymerization shrinkage. It also discusses recent advancements in low-shrinkage-stress nanocomposites for inhibiting cariogenic pathogens and enhancing remineralization.