Comparative Clinical Assessment of Proximal Contacts and Contours in Class II Posterior Restorations Using Three Matrix Systems: Randomised Clinical Trial.

Introduction: Achieving proper proximal contact and contour in Class II composite restorations is essential for maintaining tooth stability and preventing food impaction. Composite resin materials and matrix design influence the final proximal contact quality. Traditional circumferential matrices often result in open contacts, whereas sectional and saddle matrices provide better separation and contour. This study aims to compare proximal contact tightness and contour accuracy using Tofflemire, Palodent V3, and Saddle matrix systems based on FDI criteria.

Objectives: Primary objective: To compare proximal contact tightness and proximal contour quality using the three matrix systems. Secondary objective: To assess radiographic overhang formation among the three systems.

Methods: Trial design: Parallel arm randomized clinical trial with three groups. Setting: Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, MCODS, Mangalore. Participants: Adults aged 18 years and above with supragingival Class II lesions limited to one third intercuspal distance. Teeth must have an adjacent natural tooth with a contact point. Exclusion criteria include deep lesions, tooth mobility, periodontal disease, spacing, crowding, or existing adjacent restorations.

Interventions: Group 1: Tofflemire matrix system. Group 2: Palodent V3 sectional matrix system. Group 3: Saddle matrix system. All teeth will be isolated using a rubber dam, prepared using standardized cavity procedures, bonded using total etch technique, restored with composite resin in increments, and finished and polished.

Outcome Measures: Primary outcomes include proximal contact tightness assessed by floss test and clinical FDI criteria, and radiographic presence of overhangs. Secondary outcomes include proximal contour accuracy and procedure-related ease.

FDI Contact Criteria: Optimum contact: Slight resistance. Tight contact: Hard to pass floss. Open contact: No resistance.

Sample Size: Twenty-one participants, seven per group.

Randomization: Block randomization with sequentially numbered opaque envelopes.

Blinding: Outcome assessor blinded. Operator and participants not blinded.

Statistical Analysis: Chi square test with significance at p less than 0.05.

Ethics and Dissemination: Ethics committee approval will be obtained. Data confidentiality will be maintained. Results will be shared through publications and scientific presentations.

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