In this study, the wear pattern of seven commercial composite resins, one experimental composite and one dental amalgam were investigated. These materials were separately inserted in a separation preparation cavity of the patient's mouth. After clinical service for 3, 9 and 12 months the specimens were taken out and observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It was found that the softer resin matrix wore away first while the inorganic filler particles showed no signs of abrasive wear, whereafter filler particles were loosened once there was no support of the resin matrix around them.

In this study seven commercial composite resins, one experimental composite and one dental amalgam were investigated. These materials were inserted into the cavities of denture molar teeth in different patients. After clinical service for 3, 9, 12, 24 and 54 months the specimens were removed and observed by scanning electron microscopy. The wear patterns of the filling materials and their changes with continuing clinical service for 4.5 years suggest that the abrasive mechanism of conventional composite resin is as follows. The softer resin matrix is worn away and inorganic filler particles are exposed, thereafter they loosen and fall off. As this process proceeds the composite resin is worn away. This process continues with time. In the case of microfilled composite, the organic fillers and resin matrix are worn away at the same rate. After long-term clinical service some cracks could be seen on the wear surface between the organic filler agglomerates and the resin matrix.