Influence of Cavity Depth on Operator Adherence to the 2-mm Threshold in Resin-Based Composite Incremental Layering Technique: A CAD-Based Evaluation
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Current teaching recommends limiting individual resin-based composite (RBC) increments to a maximum thickness of 2 mm. However, clinicians and students use no objective measures to ensure this, particularly when managing cavities of varying depths, ranging from simple Class I cavities to badly destructed endodontically treated teeth. Aim: To investigate the thickness of RBC increments placed by clinical and preclinical dental students in cavities of varying depths using computer-aided design (CAD) software. Methodology: Following institutional review board approval, 50 secondyear preclinical and 50 fifth-year clinical students each placed 2-mm RBC increments in prefabricated rubber molds containing cavities 4, 6, or 8 mm deep. The 8-mm cavities simulated endodontically treated teeth. Each student prepared one sample at each depth, yielding 300 increments. Increment thickness was measured cross-sectionally using CAD software. Results: Mean increment thickness did not differ significantly between clinical and preclinical students (P=0.257). However, increments placed in 8-mm cavities were significantly thicker (2.18 ± 0.69 mm) than those placed in 4-mm cavities (1.77 ± 0.62 mm) (P<0.001). Conclusion: Both preclinical and clinical students placed thicker increments in deeper cavities. Student level and clinical experience did not significantly affect increment thickness.
Language: English
Subfield: General Dentistry
Field: Dentistry
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W7224252049