Are there any long-term clinical studies on nano-filled composites?

Yes, THE DENTAL ADVISOR has reported four-year results of an ongoing clinical evaluation of 3M ESPE Filtek Supreme Plus (3M ESPE), a nano-filled light-cured composite for anterior and posterior direct restorations. The product is 57-60% filled by volume with 5-20 nm particles and 60-140 nm pre-polymerized nano particle clusters. One thousand four hundred twenty-seven restorations were placed during the past four years, of which 739 were available for four-year recall evaluation. Seven hundred fourteen of the 739 were posterior restorations. Ninety-six percent of restorations had no chips or fractures. Ninety-four percent were rated good to excellent in the area of esthetics, including shade match and ability to blend with surrounding tooth structure. Eight-five percent of restorations exhibited no microleakage, with 11% having only mild staining at marginal areas. Ninety-eight percent of restorations had none or only slight evidence of wear, and occlusal anatomy and continuity with the tooth surface were maintained. The overall results are excellent and show that this nano-filled composite performed well clinically.