3M Filtek Supreme Flowable Restorative
Product incorporates 3M’s TRUE nanotechnology and an improved ergonomic syringe design that virtually eliminates bubbles and material run-on
When we look at the advancement of composite resin, we have to consider the different sizes and dimensions of the 
filler particles that compose the material. In fact, classification of composite resin has been based mostly on filler particle size—we have macrofill composites, microfill composites, and now, nanofill composites, as well as the hybrids that mix different particle sizes. The filler particles relate to the mechanical properties and wear resistance of the composite, and scientists have historically struggled to develop a composite resin that had proper mechanical properties.
By increasing the filler particle number and size, we gain mechanical strength. By reducing the number and size, we take away from the mechanical properties, but gain polishability. The conventional composite has a filler load of about 50% to 70% by volume and is condensable. When we decrease that particle load for a flowable composite, which is 37% to 54% by volume, we reduce the viscosity and have a material that can flow easily into the cavity preparation. This flowable composite has several advantages: It can flow and adapt well in difficult-to-access areas, and when used in thin layers—or as a cavity liner—it can reduce polymerization shrinkage of the overlaying, conventional composite.
However, a disadvantage of the flowable composite has been polymerization shrinkage. When we lower the filler particle size, we increase the chances of the material shrinking. Another disadvantage has been its resistance to wear, so it cannot be used on occlusal or load-bearing areas.
The Modern, Versatile Flowable Composite
In recent years, flowable composites have gained momentum because their properties have been enhanced. Most notably, the nanofill composite is composed of a greater number of particles for enhanced properties and strength while keeping the material low in viscosity compared to a conventional composite. This, along with advances in adhesive dentistry, has made it possible to use flowable composites in ways we could not previously and to practice more minimally invasive dentistry.
While 3M Filtek Supreme Ultra, a conventional composite, is arguably the gold standard of composite resin material and one of the first nanofill composites introduced, we can find the same patented TRUE nanotechnology in 3M Filtek Supreme Flowable Restorative. This technology makes the nanoparticles more uniform in size, resulting in better wear resistance and polished retention. The material is indicated for Class I and II as a liner/base, and for Class III and V (up to 2 mm) restorations.
Filling the Void
A problem with conventional or packable composites in the past has been the need to layer them incrementally in deep areas, proximal boxes, and gingival areas where it’s hard to ensure the proper condensation of the material. This can create voids and
polymerization shrinkage, leading to the deterioration of the restoration. With flowable materials, which we often use as a liner or to fill cavities up to 2 to 3 mm, we would also experience visible voids due to shortcomings in the conventional dispensing tips.
Conventional tips feature a stainless steel component that perforates as we bend it to inject the material in difficult-to-reach areas, causing the material to leak out. These issues have been resolved with the introduction of the new delivery system for 3M Filtek Supreme Flowable Restorative. The syringe features a new ergonomic design that makes it easier to hold, and the tip features a bendable cannula, improving our ability to access hard-to-reach areas without the risk of perforation. With this new system, I was able to bend the tip at 90 degrees, which we need to do in certain applications, and was able to extrude the material easily where needed.
Thanks to advancing technologies in composite resin, we are able to practice with the benefits of a lower-viscosity material without sacrificing a great deal of the mechanical properties. We can also more easily deliver the material to any area of the mouth without fear of air bubbles, voids, or unwanted extrusion of the material.
