Impact of Different Separation Methods on Proximal Contact Tightness and Contour of Compound Class ii

The target population consists of adult patients aged 25-40, with posterior compound proximal carious cavities (ICDS score 4 or 5) in molars. The interventions under investigation include three different separation systems: the Resin ring (DR-Resin ring, Egypt), Elliot separator (Pfingst & Co, USA), and Stainless Steel Metal ring (TOR VM ring, Russia). These systems will be compared to a Nickel titanium 3D-fusion ring (Garrison, USA). The primary outcomes assessed are proximal contact tightness and form/contour, measured visually according to FDI criteria, with scoring systems adapted from Hickel et al. (2023). Secondary outcomes, such as patient comfort (measured by a pain rating scale), and the emergence profile (assessed via bitewing radiographs), will also be considered. Data will be collected immediately postoperatively (T0), at 30 days (T1), and after 6 months (T2). The study will be conducted as a randomized clinical trial. The null hypothesis suggests that there will be no significant differences in proximal contact tightness or contour across the different separation systems used.

Inclusion criteria

• Individuals with posterior compound proximal carious cavities in molars.
• Age of (25-40) years.
• Molars with compound proximal carious cavities score 4 or 5 ICDS.
• Vital upper or lower posterior teeth with no signs of irreversible pulpitis.
• Presence of adjacent and opposing teeth with normal occlusion

Exclusion criteria

• Patients with major systemic disorders or xerostomia.
• Patients with periodontal disease.
• Patients with para-functional habits.
• Presence of malocclusion or signs of pathological teeth wear
• Non vital teeth or teeth with signs of pulpal pathology.
• Teeth mobility or clinical attachment loss.