3-D surface profile analysis: different finishing methods for resin composites.

A microfilled and hybrid resin composites used for esthetic restoration were finished and polished using four methods: Enhance system, Sof-Lex system, Multi-step system and Identoflex points. The tested materials were condensed into cylindrical molds, covered with a Mylar matrix at the surface to be tested and incrementally cured according to manufacturers' instructions. Samples were randomized into four groups of three for each material and were finished/polished using the different methods. The samples were then analyzed by a 3-D surface profiler to obtain roughness average (Ra), root mean square value (rms), greatest distance peak-valley (PV), measure of profile about the center line (Rsk) and measure of steepness of the amplitude density curve of the roughness profile (Rku) directly from the tested area. This method offers the advantage of being error-free. All parameters were determined for each sample and the mean of each parameter was determined for each group. ANOVA and Sheffe's test were employed to determine whether significant differences existed. The Enhance and Multi-step systems gave the best finish and polish for both materials.