The effect of ultrasonic cleaning and air polishing on the marginal integrity of radicular amalgam and composite resin restorations

Abstract This study attempts to put at ease some uncertainty of a possible damaging effect of ultrasonic scaling and air polishing procedures on dental restorations (amalgam and composite resin). Under optimal in vitro conditions, the margins of 120 restorations were subject to thorough ultrasonic and air polishing instrumentation in order to mimic those extensively used in periodontal treatments. Light-cure composite resin and Dispersalloy amalgam alloy were used to restore class V cavities at the CEJ. After being exposed to ultrasonic scaling and air polishing, cleaning, and thermocycling, clinical evaluation of the cavity margins and microleakage examination showed no detrimental effects of these procedures.