Comparative analysis of flexural strength of four commercially available dental restorative materials

Abstract

Background: The objective of this in vitro study was to investigate the flexural strengths of four commercially available restorative materials. The restorative materials used in this study were - Posterior Glass ionomer cement (GC Fuji), Resin modified Glass ionomer cement (GC), Ketac molar (3M ESPE), Miracle mix (XP). Materials and Methods :- Four restorative material under study were divided into 4 groups with each group containing five specimens of 2 mm × 2 mm × 25 mm of restorative material prepared according to ISO 9917-2 standard  using a customized metal mould. After light polymerization, the specimens were stored in distilled water at 37°C for 24 hours. The specimens were subsequently blotted dry, measured and subjected to flexural testing using an Instron universal testing machine (Tinius Olsen) at a crosshead speed of 1mm/min until the specimen fractured. Results: - Data collected was statistically analysed using Kruskal Walli’s Test and Chi Square test. The result showed that the mean flexural strength of Ketac Molar> Miracle Mix > RMGIC > Posterior GIC. Conclusion: -The knowledge of mechanical properties of the various materials is important for the long-term clinical success of material.