%0 Journal Article
%T Clinical Outcomes of Bulk-Fill Composites in High-Stress Occlusal Areas: A Systematic Review
%A Manal Aldaijy
%A Sara Aleshaiwy
%A Mariam Alasfour
%A Danah Alasfour
%A Hessah Alkhalaf
%A Norah Aldhafeeri
%A Hanan Alkhazi
%J Annals of Dental Specialty
%@ 2347-2022
%D 2025
%V 13
%N 4
%R 10.51847/RG0Fy7VEkp
%P 85-93
%X Bulk-fill resin composites are a relatively new alternative to the incremental filling technique for posterior restorations, especially in demanding occlusal contact positions. These materials purportedly alleviate shrinkage and clinical difficulties associated with incrementally placed composites. Considering these purported advantages, bulk-fill composites could prove clinically beneficial. This review assesses clinically and mechanically the high-stress occlusal engagements of bulk-fill composites through a systematic approach integrating in vitro evidence. A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar, following PRISMA criteria. Only in vitro studies published from 2015 to 2024 evaluating bulk-fill composites vis a vis conventional composites for high-stress occlusal restorations were considered. After sifting through 142 records and 29 full texts, ten studies were finalized. Data extracted included microleakage, fatigue, fracture strength, marginal adaptation, and compressive properties. Extreme thermocycling and cyclic loading were the main drivers in most studies, demonstrating that bulk-fill composites perform as well as, or better than, conventional composites in microleakage, fatigue resistance, and marginal integrity. Still, varying results stemmed from material composition and other clinic-influenced factors, such as cavity geometry and the technique used. Some authors noted sensitivity to contamination and advocated the use of flowable liners to minimize microleakage. Bulk-fill composites can be considered for high-stress occlusal restorations due to their clinical effectiveness. They seem to be reliable substitutes for traditional composites due to their simpler application and satisfactory mechanical properties. More clinical studies are needed to evaluate their in vivo effectiveness.
%U https://annalsofdentalspecialty.net.in/article/clinical-outcomes-of-bulk-fill-composites-in-high-stress-occlusal-areas-a-systematic-review-p6fiz4o1hfhpyoj