Aims: To evaluate the fracture resistance of premolars with mesio–occluso–distal (MOD) preparations with resin composite using different incremental techniques when submitted to occlusal load. Materials and Methods: Fifty premolars were used and randomly divided into five groups of ten teeth each. The teeth in group I were prepared and not restored. The teeth in group II were restored in vertical technique. Teeth in group III were restored in horizontal technique. Teeth in group IV were restored in oblique technique. Teeth in groups II, III and IV were restored using Exite adhesive system and Tetric hybrid composite. Teeth in group V were restored in horizontal technique using combinations of Tetric flowable composite and Tetric hybrid composite. After thermocycling, the teeth were tested under universal compression machine. The data obtained in this research were subjected to analysis of variance and Duncan’s Multiple Range Test. Results: Both groups V and IV significantly increase the fracture resistance of teeth over groups II and III. Conclusions: Selection and appropriate use of materials, better placement technique and control polymerization shrinkage may increase the resistance of teeth to fracture with Class II resin composite restorations.

Resin composite --- fracture resistance --- polymerization shrinkage