A new generation of flowable composites

This development has extended the range of indications. For example, according to the manufacturer, CLEARFIL MAJESTY ES Flow Universal has a high filler loading of 75–78 wt%, a flexural strength of more than 150 MPa and a compressive strength exceeding 370 MPa. Thanks to its high strength, it serves as a reliable and permanent solution that is even suitable for stress-bearing areas such as the occlusal surfaces of posterior teeth. 

Additionally, the flowable composite is available in two levels of flowability, Low and Super Low, addressing a wider range of personal preferences and indication-specific needs in just two shades, Universal and Universal Dark. The latter offers the benefit of intuitive shade selection even in the anterior area and is enabled by a mixture of shade matching technologies, including optimised light diffusion technology and an enamel-like translucency. The following case example illustrates how CLEARFIL MAJESTY ES Flow Universal simplifies posterior restoration procedures. 

Case example

A patient presented for the replacement of two amalgam restorations in the mandibular right molars (Fig. 1). CLEARFIL MAJESTY ES Flow Universal Low was selected as the sole restorative material, given that it facilitates filling and provides for optimal adaptation to the cavity walls. The position of the teeth to be restored made shade selection easy: Universal shade is designed to harmonise with all posterior restorations. 

The amalgam restorations were removed and caries excavated, saving as much of the healthy tooth structure as possible (Figs. 2 & 3). A selective enamel etching technique was chosen, followed by the application of a universal adhesive (CLEARFIL Universal Bond Quick 2). Subsequently, CLEARFIL MAJESTY ES Flow Universal was applied into the cavities (Fig. 4). Thanks to the innovative syringe design, the applied flowable composite was virtually free of voids. Each layer should be thoroughly polymerised for 10–20 seconds, depending on the curing light used, before the next layer is applied. In line with the instructions for use of the product, the thickness of each layer did not exceed 2 mm to ensure complete polymerisation (Figs. 5 & 6). This has a decisive impact on the long-term performance of definitive restorations. 

The low flowability of the selected material allows for some modelling of the occlusal surface morphology (Fig. 7). When more anatomical details need to be restored, clinicians may opt for the steadier Super Low variant. It took just a few seconds to polish the restorations to a high gloss (Fig. 8). 

Simple alternative to packable composites

Especially in difficult-to-reach areas in the mouth, the use of a flowable composite with well-balanced mechanical properties can be an ideal alternative to a packable one. The use of flowable composites can help to simplify daily clinical tasks, owing to the advantages provided by advanced shade matching abilities, virtually void-free application, easy adaptation and modelling, and quick polishing.