Reduction of microleakage in class II composite resin restorations using retentive pins.

The effect on microleakage of Bondent parapulpal pins used in class II composite resin restorations was evaluated in vitro. Bulk and incremental packing and polymerization techniques were compared, using pins anchored at the gingival cavity walls. Evaluation of microleakage was carried out following cyclic load application and an extended thermocycling procedure by the assessment of dye penetration. The results showed that the use of pins at the gingival wall of class II composite resin restorations provided significantly improved marginal sealing. The procedure should, therefore, be regarded as an effective clinical practice.