An intensive literature review on evaluating microleakage suggested that a quantitative method is needed. Further, the review concluded that an in vitro reference controlled reverse diffusion method is one which is likely to be non- destructive, simple, objective and capable of quantitat-ing microleakage in real time and over extended durations. Since the proposed method can be influenced by extraneous variables, careful standardization of the experimental procedure was necessary. Ten experiments leading to the choice of the proper material/method of testing were conducted. The results of all experiments are reported. Based on the results of these pilot studies, a well calibrated overall experimental procedure for quantitating microleakage in vitro was determined. The standardized reference controlled procedure is recommended for quan­titating microleakage of various materials and techniques utilized in intra-, extra-, and endodontic restorations. Reports of results of the latter studies are in preparation.

Saudi Dental Journal 1996;8(1):3-12