Surface Characteristics of Restorative Composite Resins after Polishing with Profine Lamineer Tips

The purpose of this study was to investigate the surface roughness of one restorative composite material when using the Profine System with Lamineers tips. 3 shades of composite resin were used for testing. 15 discs of composite resin were prepared for each shade; 5 discs received no treatment, while the other 10 were divided in two study groups which were polished using either the diamond or the carbide tips using reciprocating movements. The roughness values (Ra; mu m) were assessed using a profilometer and the effect of polishing systems on the surface roughness in each group were statistically analyzed. The surfaces of specimens were observed by scanning electron microscopy. The results indicated that the surface roughness depended on type of Lamineer tip and shade of the composite resin.