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Journal of Polymer & Composites Review Article Special issue

Interfacial Performance and Structural Stability of Repaired vs. Replaced Polymer-Based Composites: A 3-Year Retrospective Analysis of 'Patch-up' Restorative Engineering

  1. N. Parthasarathy Department of Prosthodontics Sri Ramachandra Dental College and Hospital, Porur, Chennai
  2. V.S. Kumar Bhagavathula Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Konaseema Institute of Dental Sciences
  3. Parthiban Saketharaman Department of Periodontics, Srivenkateswaraa dental College Ariyur
  4. Abarna Jawahar Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, Sree Balaji Dental College & Hospital, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research (BIHER), Chennai
  5. Adhavan Balaji K.L.M. Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics Vinayaka Mission’s Sankarachariyar Dental College, Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation (Deemed to be University) Ariyanoor Salem
  6. Revathy Gounder Department of Prosthodontics, Saveetha Dental College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Chennai

Abstract

Objective: This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the clinical longevity and interfacial success of repairing aged polymer-based composites versus complete replacement, focusing on the integration between the existing polymer matrix and the new restorative material.

Materials and Methods: A retrospective clinical audit was conducted on 50 cases (n = 50) of posterior restorations with localized defects. The sample was categorized into: Group A (n = 25), where defective sites were treated with localized repair using a multi-step polymer bonding protocol (surface roughening and silanization); and Group B (n = 25), where restorations were completely replaced. The study focused on the cross-linking stability at the repair interface over a 3-year period. Clinical outcomes were assessed using modified USPHS criteria, with specific emphasis on marginal integrity and interfacial staining.

Results: The 3-year survival rate was 88% for the Repair group and 92% for the Replacement group. Statistical analysis indicated no significant difference in functional performance (p > 0.05). In Group A, failures were characterized by cohesive polymer failure or marginal delamination, whereas Group B failures were largely related to tooth-structure fractures. The repair protocol demonstrated that the aged polymer matrix could successfully bond to new resin monomers when proper surface conditioning was applied.

Conclusion: Localized repair of polymer-based composites is a reliable, minimally invasive alternative to total replacement. The success of "patch-up" dentistry depends heavily on the interfacial polymer bond, which provides sufficient clinical stability while preserving healthy tooth structure.

Keywords

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