Objective: This evaluation assessed the handling properties of a recently introduced resin-based composite (RBC), which contains nanofiller particles. (Filtek Supreme, 3M ESPE, St. Paul, MN, USA). Method: Twelve dental practitioners from a UK-wide practice-based research group, the PREP (Product Research and Evaluation by Practitioners) Panel were chosen at random and sent a pack of the material along with a questionnaire designed to evaluate the presentation, handling and ease of use of the material. Most responses were given on a visual analogue scale (VAS). The evaluators were also asked the reasons for choice of RBC materials both for anterior and posterior use, and to compare the RBCs they previously used with the new material. Results: The new material was used to place 778 restorations. Responses on the VAS indicated that the evaluators scored this material 4.5 for dispensing and placement convenience (where 1=inconvenient and 5-convenient). For overall aesthetic quality of the restorations, restorations in the new material scored 4.7, compared with 4.3 for the material previously used by the evaluators (where 1= poor and 5=excellent). 75% (n=9) of the evaluators stated that the material was suitable for both posterior and anterior use and 83% (n=10) stated they would purchase the material and recommend it to colleagues. Conclusions: A new nano-filled RBC was extensively assessed by 12 UK dental practitioners during the placement of 778 restorations. It received high ratings for ease of dispensing and placement, and restorations in this material received a superior rating for aesthetic quality when compared with the RBC material previously used by the evaluators.

The support of 3M ESPE (Loughborough, UK) is acknowledged

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