Fig.1
The initial clinical examination revealed that the maxillary left first molar (tooth 26) presented a small to medium-sized occlusal carious lesion requiring restorative intervention. The lesion was confined to the occlusal surface, with no clinical or radiographic evidence of proximal involvement or pulpal compromise. The tooth was asymptomatic, and the surrounding periodontal tissues appeared healthy.
Given the limited extension of the carious process, a minimally invasive approach was indicated. The treatment plan involved the removal of the decayed tissue followed by a direct adhesive restoration aimed at preserving sound dental structure while restoring the tooth’s function and morphology. This conservative strategy aligns with contemporary principles of adhesive and minimally invasive dentistry, ensuring optimal structural integrity, durability, and aesthetic integration.

Fig.2
Following local infiltrative anesthesia to ensure optimal patient comfort, rubber dam isolation was established to provide a clean, dry, and contamination-free operative field. Subsequently, caries excavation was performed using spherical burs in both high-speed and low-speed handpieces. Initial access and removal of unsupported enamel were achieved with a high-speed round bur under copious water irrigation, ensuring precision and preventing thermal damage to the dental tissues. The excavation of infected dentin was then carefully completed using a low-speed round bur, allowing for controlled and selective removal of carious tissue while preserving sound tooth structure.

Fig.3
Selective enamel etching was performed using 35–37% phosphoric acid applied exclusively to the enamel margins for 20–30 seconds. This technique enhances micromechanical retention by creating a controlled enamel micro-porosity, thereby optimizing adhesion and improving marginal integrity.
After the etching period, the phosphoric acid was thoroughly rinsed with an air–water spray for at least 15 seconds to ensure complete removal of the etchant. The enamel surfaces were then gently air-dried until a characteristic frosty white appearance was observed, indicating effective etching. Care was taken to avoid desiccation of the dentin.
The selective enamel etching protocol combines the superior bond strength of the etch-and-rinse technique on enamel with the simplicity and reliability of universal adhesive systems applied in self-etch mode. This approach reduces the risk of postoperative sensitivity while ensuring durable adhesion and optimal marginal sealing, contributing to the long-term success of the restoration.

Fig.4
Following selective enamel etching, the universal adhesive Scotchbond Universal Plus (Solventum, Eagan, MN, USA) was applied to all bonding surfaces, including both enamel and dentin. The adhesive was actively rubbed onto the substrate for approximately 20 seconds, particularly on dentin, to enhance monomer infiltration, promote optimal hybrid layer formation, and ensure effective interaction with the dental tissues.
After application, a gentle and controlled stream of air was used for several seconds to evenly distribute the adhesive layer, evaporate the solvent, and achieve a uniform, thin, and stable film within the cavity. This step is essential to optimize bond strength and prevent pooling of the material.
Subsequently, the adhesive was light-cured for 10 seconds using a calibrated LED curing unit, ensuring adequate polymerization and the establishment of a reliable and durable adhesive interface.

Fig.5
After polymerization of the adhesive layer, the first increment of composite resin was placed using Filtek Easy Match Flow (Solventum, Eagan, MN, USA) in the Natural shade. The material was selected for its excellent handling properties, adaptive opacity, and superior blending capability, making it particularly suitable for small to medium-sized occlusal cavities in posterior teeth.
The dispensing cannula was carefully positioned at the deepest portion of the cavity to ensure precise and controlled application. A flowable composite increment not exceeding 2 mm in thickness was injected directly onto the cavity floor. This technique minimizes the risk of air entrapment, enhances internal adaptation to the cavity walls, and ensures a homogeneous restoration free of voids.
Following placement, the increment was light-cured according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, ensuring adequate polymerization and optimal mechanical performance. This approach contributes to improved marginal integrity, structural reliability, and long-term clinical success of the restoration.

Fig.6
The composite resin used for the restoration was Filtek Easy Match Flow (Solventum, Eagan, MN, USA) in the Natural shade.

Fig.7
Following the placement and polymerization of the initial increment of Filtek Easy Match Flow (Solventum, Eagan, MN, USA), an additional increment of the same material was applied to restore the occlusal volume and reestablish the anatomical morphology of the tooth.
The material’s excellent handling properties and controlled viscosity facilitated accurate adaptation and contouring, while its Naturally Adaptive Opacity and chameleon effect ensured seamless aesthetic integration with the surrounding tooth structure.
Once the desired anatomy was achieved, the composite increment, maintained within a thickness not exceeding 2 mm, was light-cured for 10 seconds in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Fig.8
Final appearance of the restoration immediately after completion of the finishing and polishing procedures.
The finishing and polishing procedures were carried out using a multi-step protocol to achieve optimal surface and long-term gloss. Initial contouring and smoothing were performed with polishing rubbers, followed by spiral polishing wheels, Sof-Lex Spiral (Solventum, Eagan, MN, USA), using both the pre-polishing and high-gloss instruments. The final luster was achieved with a diamond polishing paste (Lucida, DiaShine, Washington, USA) applied with a felt disc, resulting in a superior enamel-like shine.

Fig.9
Excellent integration of the restoration with the surrounding tooth structure can be observed, highlighting the seamless adaptation of Filtek Easy Match Flow (Solventum, Eagan, MN, USA) to the remaining dental tissues. The material’s Naturally Adaptive Opacity and pronounced chameleon effect allowed for harmonious blending with the natural enamel, resulting in an aesthetically pleasing and clinically imperceptible outcome.

Conclusions

The restoration of small to medium-sized occlusal cavities in posterior teeth requires materials that ensure efficiency, predictability, and long-term clinical success. The use of Filtek Easy Match Flow (Solventum, Eagan, MN, USA) represents a contemporary and simplified approach to direct posterior restorations. Its Naturally Adaptive Opacity and pronounced chameleon effect enable seamless integration with the surrounding tooth structure, eliminating the need for complex shade selection while delivering excellent aesthetic outcomes.
Moreover, the material’s superior rheological properties allow for optimal adaptation to cavity walls and internal surfaces. The advanced syringe design and formulation contribute to the virtual absence of internal voids, enhancing the integrity, durability, and reliability of the restoration. These characteristics are particularly advantageous in small to medium occlusal cavities, where precision, marginal adaptation, and efficiency are essential.
Within the framework of minimally invasive dentistry, Filtek Easy Match Flow (Solventum, Eagan, MN, USA) offers clinicians a predictable and user-friendly solution that aligns with modern restorative principles. Its clinical performance supports simplified workflows without compromising aesthetic integration or mechanical stability, making it an excellent choice for everyday posterior restorative procedures.

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