The 4th International Heraeus Symposium featured a presentation entitled, “Clinical Relevance and Measurement of the Shrinkage Stress Generation in Photopolymerizing Dental Composites.”

The presentation by Jack L. Ferracane, PhD., Professor and Chair at Oregon Health & Science University, was one of 14 presentations given to an audience of 68 key opinion leaders at a two-day symposium sponsored by Heraeus Kulzer, LLC, the worldwide leader in dental esthetics.

Dr. Ferracane explained that light curing of dental composites tends to produce a volumetric shrinkage that generates significant stress of the tooth-restoration bond. This stress may compromise the adhesion and sealing of dental composite restorations. He reviewed several clinical studies that measured shrinkage stress for various dental composite brands using different testing systems.

His key conclusions:

    --  Venus Diamond has shown one of the lowest stress magnitudes in different
        testing systems.
    --  The magnitude of measured shrinkage stresses is dependent upon the
        testing system.
    --  Shrinkage stress is affected by composite formulation, and increases
        with increased shrinkage, stiffness and curing rates, as well as in more
        confined cavity geometries.
    --  Shrinkage stresses are inevitable with current dental composites,
        producing stress on adhesively bonded interfaces.

In one study co-authored by Dr. Ferracane, Venus Diamond recorded the lowest stress among five composite brands tested at both 40s and 300s of curing light exposure.

“As Dr. Ferracane’s presentation clearly demonstrates, shrinkage stress can reduce the integrity and longevity of many dental restorations.” – Sonny Serreno Heraeus Director of Scientific & Clinical Affairs

“Fortunately, our five years of extensive research have produced a patented chemistry that allows Venus Diamond to exhibit minimal shrinkage stress, which makes it ideal for both direct and indirect restorations,” he declared.

Venus Diamond embodies a true balance of science and esthetics based on a patented cross-linked polymer matrix. The optimal physical properties of Venus Diamond offer a composite that truly performs in every category with low shrinkage stress, unique handling, exceptional strength and durability, and perfect color adaptation.