Objective: To evaluate the clinical performance of direct composite restorations using the modified stamp technique (MST) in vivo.
Methods: A total of 30 posterior teeth with undermining caries were randomly divided into two groups and then restored using the MST and conventional technique (CT), respectively. 3D images of the occlusal surface were obtained using an intraoral scanner (CEREC Omnicam, Dentsply Sirona, Charlotte, NC, USA) before and after treatment and the differences between these two 3D images were analysed with reverse engineering software. Statistical analysis was performed using a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) combined with a least significant difference (LSD) post hoc test using SPSS 20.0 software (IBM, Armonk, NY, USA).
Results: The statistical analysis revealed that the average root mean square (RMS) values of best fit alignment errors were significantly different between groups (P < 0.01). The average RMS values in the MST and CT groups were 0.0738 ± 0.0279 and 0.1638 ± 0.0682, respectively. The LSD post hoc test revealed that the value was significant smaller in the MST group than in the CT group.
Conclusion: The MST was effective in direct composite restoration. The morphological consistency of the occlusal surface using the MST was better than with the CT.