Shrinkage that occurs upon polymerization remains one of the main reasons for failure in Dental composites in the oral environment. A new photocurable resin, modified with novel expandable monomers is proposed for formulating Dental composites that bond well to dentin, produce strong and durable restorations, and show minimal cure shrinkage. The proposed research explores the feasibility of formulating conventional methacrylate-based Dental resins with novel monomers that expand on polymerization to maintain constant volume during cure while preserving the desired mechanical properties. The curing process will be accompanied by a controlled level of resin matrix expansion for effective sealing and counteraction of matrix resin shrinkage. The ultimate objective is to develop an easily processed Dental composite with high adhesion to Dental substrates and superior durability in the oral environment. The new resin composites will be designed to effectively provide a microleakage-minimizing seal to dentin. In the proposed study, the candidate materials for these composites will be identified, the compatibility of different components tested, their structure-property profiles determined and their ability to be rapidly and thoroughly cured to durable, low-shrinkage materials demonstrated. The optimized composite restorative system will be characterized for mechanical strength, adhesion to dentin, physiological stability and microleakage.
