Composite resin restoration and postoperative sensitivity: clinical follow-up in an undergraduate program

Effect of fiber-reinforced direct restorative materials on the fracture resistance of endodontically treated mandibular molars restored with a conservative endodontic cavity design

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the fracture strength of teeth restored using fiber-reinforced direct restorative materials after endodontic treatment with a conservative mesio-occlusal access cavity design.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 100 extracted intact mandibular first molars were selected and distributed into a positive control group where teeth left intact and the following four test groups comprised of teeth with conservative mesio-occlusal access cavities that had undergone root canal treatment (n = 20/group): access cavity without restoration (negative control), bulk-fill resin composite with horizontal glass fiber post reinforcement, fiber-reinforced composite with bulk-fill resin and bulk-fill resin composite. Following thermocycling (10,000 cycles), fracture resistance was measured using a universal testing machine. Statistical analyses (one-way analysis of variance and the Tamhane test) were performed, and statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

Groups with minimally invasive access cavities had lower fracture strength than intact teeth, regardless of the restoration material (p < 0.05). Fiber-reinforced composite groups demonstrated higher fracture strength than bulk-fill resin composite alone (p < 0.05). Fracture types varied among groups, with restorable fractures predominant in the fiber-reinforced composite groups.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that using fiber-reinforced composite materials, especially in combination with bulk-fill resin composites, can effectively enhance the fracture strength of endodontically treated teeth with conservative access cavities. However, using only bulk-fill resin composite is not recommended based on the fracture strength results.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

When teeth that undergo endodontic treatment are restored using a conservative access cavity design and fiber-reinforced composite materials, especially in combination with bulk-fill resin composites, the fracture strength of the teeth can be effectively increased.

Load-bearing capacity of 3D-printed incisor partial-coverage crowns made from zirconia and composite

PURPOSE

This study investigated the fracture resistance of 0.5-mm-thick restorations for minimally invasive therapy. Anterior partial-coverage crowns composed of three-dimensional (3D)-printed 3-mol% yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal (3Y-TZP; Lithacon 3Y210, Lithoz) and 3D-printed composite (Varseo Smile Crown plus, Bego) were compared with a control group made from milled 3Y-TZP (Cercon ht, DentsplySirona).

METHODS

Three groups each with 27 restorations were produced. For milled 3Y-TZP partial-coverage crowns, drill compensation was needed so the milling bur could access the inner surface at the incisal edge. Restoration fit was verified by cross-sectioning 12 specimens in each group. The remaining 15 restorations were sandblasted (Al2O3, 0.1 MPa) and adhesively cemented (Panavia SA, Kuraray) onto CoCr teeth. Static load-to-failure tests were performed. The load was induced on the incisal edge. The forces needed to fracture the specimens were analyzed using the Welch analysis of variance and post hoc Dunnet-T3 tests. The Weibull parameters were also calculated.

RESULTS

Drill compensation increased cement thickness at the loading area by 200 µm in milled 3Y-TZP restorations compared with the 3D-printed partial-coverage crowns. Fracture resistance was the highest in 3D-printed 3Y-TZP restorations (1570±661N) followed by milled 3Y-TZP (886±164N) and 3D-printed composite partial-coverage crowns (570±233 N). Milled 3Y-TZP was associated with a substantially higher Weibull modulus (m=6) than the 3D-printed materials (m=2), suggesting greater reliability.

CONCLUSIONS

Fracture resistance increased with tighter fit, demonstrating the benefit of the geometric freedom associated with 3D-printing. Future research should focus on making 3D-printed 3Y-TZP more reliable to increase its safety in clinical use.

Two-year clinical performance of dual- and light-cure bulk-fill resin composites in Class ӀӀ restorations: a randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to compare the clinical performance of dual- and light-cure bulk-fill resin composites (BFRCs) in Class ӀӀ restorations after 2 years.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A double-blinded, prospective, randomized clinical trial (RCT) was conducted following the CONSORT (Consolidated Standard of Reporting Trials) guidelines. Forty patients were enrolled in the study. Each patient received three compound Class ӀӀ restorations. One dual-cure (Fill-Up; Coltene Waledent AG) and two light-cure (QuiXfil; Dentsply, and Tetric N-Ceram Bulk Fill; Ivoclar Vivadent) BFRCs were used for 120 Class ӀӀ restorations. A universal adhesive (ONE COAT 7 UNIVERSAL; Coltene Waledent AG) was used with all restorations. Restorations were clinically evaluated after 1 week (baseline), 6 months, 12 months, 18 months, and finally after 24 months using the FDI World Dental Federation (FDI) criteria. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used for comparison between BFRCs groups at baseline and at each recall period, and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used for comparing different follow-up times of each BFRC to baseline. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

All BFRCs restorations showed only minor changes and revealed no statistically significant differences between their clinical performance for all evaluated parameters at all recall periods; also, there was no statistically significant difference between all recall periods and baseline for all evaluated parameters.

CONCLUSION

The two-year clinical performance of dual-cure BFRC was comparable to light-cure BFRCs in Class ӀӀ restorations.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Dual- and light-cure BFRCs showed excellent clinical performance in Class ӀӀ restorations after a 2-year clinical follow-up.

Fracture Resistance of Class II MOD Cavities Restored by Direct and Indirect Techniques and Different Materials Combination

This study aimed to evaluate the fracture resistance of class II MOD cavities restored using different techniques and materials. Sixty extracted maxillary molars were selected and standardized class II MOD cavities were prepared using a custom-made paralleling device. The specimens were divided into four groups based on the restoration technique used: Group 1 (direct resin composite), Group 2 (short-fiber-reinforced composite resin), Group 3 (composite polyethylene fiber reinforcement), and Group 4 (CAD/CAM resin inlays). Fracture resistance was assessed for each group after thermocycling aging for 10,000 cycles. The mode of fracture was assigned to five types using Burke's classification. To compare the fracture force among the tested materials, a paired sample t-test was performed. The significance level for each test was set at p < 0.05. Significant differences in fracture resistance were observed among the different restoration techniques. CAD/CAM inlays (2166 ± 615 N), short-fiber-reinforced composite resin (2471 ± 761 N), and composite polyethylene fiber reinforcement (1923 ± 492 N) showed superior fracture resistance compared to the group restored with direct resin composite (1242 ± 436 N). The conventional resin composite group exhibited the lowest mean fracture resistance. The choice of restoration material plays a critical role in the clinical survival of large MOD cavities. CAD/CAM inlays and fiber-reinforced composites offer improved fracture resistance, which is essential for long-term success in extensive restorations.

Postoperative sensitivity in posterior resin composite restorations with prior application of a glutaraldehyde-based desensitizing solution: A randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effect of a glutaraldehyde-based desensitizer on the postoperative sensitivity (POS) in posterior resin composite restorations up to 12 months using a universal adhesive (Tetric N-Bond Universal) with selective enamel etching (SE) or an etch-and-rinse (ER) strategy.

METHODS

Class I and class II resin composite restorations (n = 220) at least 3 mm deep were inserted in 55 subjects. The universal adhesive was applied using the SE (self-etch strategy on dentin with selective enamel etching) or the ER strategy, with or without prior application of a glutaraldehyde-based desensitizer (Gluma Desensitizer - GL) to form groups SEGL and ERGL. A bulk-fill resin composite (Tetric NCeram Bulk Fill) was used for all restorations. Spontaneous POS was assessed 7 days after the restorative procedure using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS). After 7, 14, and 30 days of completing each restoration, the subjects were reassessed to evaluate POS caused by stimulation with an air blast, horizontal and vertical percussion. In addition, marginal discoloration, marginal adaptation, fracture, and recurrence of caries were evaluated using the FDI (World Dental Federation) criteria after 7 days and at 12 months.

RESULTS

No significant spontaneous or stimuli-induced POS was observed when restorations with or without GL were compared (p>0.05). A higher risk of spontaneous POS was observed within 7 days (40.0%; 95% CI 28.1 to 53.1), without statistically significant differences among groups. None of the participants reported POS at 12 months, however five restorations were considered clinically unsatisfactory (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The previous application of GL did not significantly reduce spontaneous or stimuli-induced POS in posterior resin composite restorations at any time, regardless of the adhesive strategy used.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The use of a glutaraldehyde-based desensitizing agent did not generate lower incidence of postoperative sensitivity in resin composite posterior restorations.

Clinical Effectiveness of Bulk-Fill and Conventional Resin Composite Restorations: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine the clinical effectiveness of bulk-fill and conventional resin in composite restorations. A bibliographic search was carried out until May 2020, in the biomedical databases Pubmed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, CENTRAL and Web of Science. The study selection criteria were: randomized clinical trials, in English, with no time limit, with a follow-up greater than or equal to 6 months and that reported the clinical effects (absence of fractures, absence of discoloration or marginal staining, adequate adaptation marginal, absence of post-operative sensitivity, absence of secondary caries, adequate color stability and translucency, proper surface texture, proper anatomical form, adequate tooth integrity without wear, adequate restoration integrity, proper occlusion, absence of inflammation and adequate point of contact) of restorations made with conventional and bulk resins. The risk of bias of the study was analyzed using the Cochrane Manual of Systematic Reviews of Interventions. Sixteen articles were eligible and included in the study. The results indicated that there is no difference between restorations with conventional and bulk resins for the type of restoration, type of tooth restored and restoration technique used. However, further properly designed clinical studies are required in order to reach a better conclusion.

Adhesive restoration of molars affected by molar incisor hypomineralization: a randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

This randomized clinical trial evaluated the survival of direct restorations on first permanent molars (FPMs) with molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) and its impact on self-reported dental pain and dental anxiety.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

FPMs with MIH of 35 patients aged 7 to 16 years were included. The FPMs were randomized into the following two groups: total-etch (TE-37% phosphoric acid etching) and self-etch (SE-no prior etching). The FPMs were restored with universal adhesive and bulk-fill resin composites. The restoration survival was evaluated according to USPHS criteria modified by a blinded examiner. Dental anxiety (Venham picture test) and dental pain (Faces pain scale-revised) were evaluated before treatment and at 1, 6, and 12 months post-treatment. Survival rates were analyzed by the Kaplan-Meier method and the log-rank test. Nonparametric tests compared pain and anxiety in the follow-up periods.

RESULTS

A total of 64 FPMs were restored (TE = 33; SE = 31). Survival rates were 96.9% (TE) and 96.7% (SE) after 1 month, 90.5% (TE) and 80.6% (SE) after 6 months, and 80.8% (TE) and 62.3% (SE) after 12 months (p > 0.05). Self-reported dental pain and anxiety level decreased after treatment in both groups (p < 0.05). Self-reported pain decreased after 1 month in SE, but it occurred at 6 months in TE.

CONCLUSION

Both restorative protocols presented similar longevity, decreasing self-reported pain and anxiety levels.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

A universal adhesive could be appropriate for restoration of MIH-affected teeth, and the survival of restorations could be higher in the total-etch technique, reducing dental pain and anxiety.

Evaluation of postoperative sensitivity in restorations with self-adhesive resin: a randomized split-mouth design controlled study

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the postoperative sensitivity of restorations with self-adhesive resin composite (SAC) (Vertise Flow (VER)/Kerr) compared with conventional resin composite with self-etching adhesive (Filtek Z250 (Z250)/3M ESPE; Clearfil SE Bond (CSEB)/Kuraray).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A randomized, controlled, double-blind, split-mouth, two-arm clinical trial was conducted. Twenty-seven volunteers with third molars indicated for extraction received two deep class I restorations, one with each material. Postoperative sensitivity was measured at 24 h and 15 or 30 days after the restorative procedures using a visual analog scale (VAS). When present, information on the characteristics of the pain was also collected. The data were submitted to the McNemar test (α = 0.05).

RESULTS

Regardless of the time intervals, the postoperative sensitivity was observed in 52% and 48% of the CSEB and VERT groups, respectively (p = 1.000). When the evaluation periods were analyzed, the 15-day evaluation presented the highest occurrence of pain, but of mild intensity, in both groups. All patients with sensitivity reported that the pain was localized and of short duration.

CONCLUSION

Self-adhesive resin composite Vertise Flow and conventional resin composite with a self-etching bonding agent promoted similar response regarding postoperative sensitivity in deep class I cavities. When postoperative sensitivity was present, mild pain was observed, especially after 15 days of the restorative procedure, which decreased over time.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Postoperative sensitivity to self-adhesive resin composite (SAC) restorations in deep cavities was comparable with that of conventional restorations with a self-etching bonding agent.

Effect of a Self-Etch Adhesive Containing Nanobioglass on Postoperative Sensitivity of Posterior Composite Restorations - A Randomized Trial

BACKGROUND

Postoperative sensitivity is one of the major problems regarding posterior resin composite restorations that causes patient discomfort, maybe a reason for replacement of the restoration with an additional office time.

AIM

To evaluate the effect of the addition of a Nanobioglass to a self-etch adhesive on the reduction of post-operative sensitivity following composite restorations versus a self-etch adhesive that is free of Nanobioglass agent.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixteen patients having class II carious lesions were included in the study. After cavity preparation, each tooth was randomised to one of the following restorative treatments. Teeth in the control group were restored using self-etch adhesive (OptiBond All-In-One, Kerr) that is free of nanobioglass agent, and nano-hybrid resin composite (Herculite Ultra, Kerr). Restoration of teeth in the experimental group was similar to the control except that a nanobioglass agent was added to the self-etch adhesive. Patients were contacted for evaluation of postoperative sensitivity at 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months. Data were analyzed using friedmann test followed by fisher exact test.

RESULTS

The experimental group (self-etch adhesive containing nanobioglass) showed a significantly less postoperative sensitivity compared with the control group (Self-etch adhesive free of nanobioglass) at 1 day, and 1-week evaluation periods. While both groups did not possess any significant difference at 1 month, and 3 months periods.

CONCLUSION

The problem of postoperative sensitivity following resin composite restorations could be solved by the addition of bioglass nanoparticles into dental adhesives.

Dental cavity liners for Class I and Class II resin-based composite restorations

BACKGROUND

Resin-based composite (RBC) is currently accepted as a viable material for the restoration of caries for posterior permanent teeth requiring surgical treatment. Despite the fact that the thermal conductivity of the RBC restorative material closely approximates that of natural tooth structure, postoperative hypersensitivity is sometimes still an issue. Dental cavity liners have historically been used to protect the pulp from the toxic effects of some dental restorative materials and to prevent the pain of thermal conductivity by placing an insulating layer between restorative material and the remaining tooth structure. This is an update of the Cochrane Review first published in 2016.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this review was to assess the effects of using dental cavity liners in the placement of Class I and Class II resin-based composite posterior restorations in permanent teeth in children and adults.

SEARCH METHODS

Cochrane Oral Health's Information Specialist searched the following databases: Cochrane Oral Health's Trials Register (to 12 November 2018), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; 2018, Issue 10) in the Cochrane Library (searched 12 November 2018), MEDLINE Ovid (1946 to 12 November 2018), Embase Ovid (1980 to 12 November 2018) and LILACS BIREME Virtual Health Library (Latin American and Caribbean Health Science Information database; 1982 to 12 November 2018). We searched ClinicalTrials.gov and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform for ongoing trials. No restrictions were placed on the language or date of publication when searching the electronic databases.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomized controlled trials assessing the effects of the use of liners under Class I and Class II posterior resin-based composite restorations in permanent teeth (in both adults and children). We included both parallel and split-mouth designs.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We utilized standard methodological procedures prescribed by Cochrane for data collection and analysis. Two review authors screened the search results and assessed the eligibility of studies for inclusion against the review inclusion criteria. We conducted risk of bias assessments and data extraction independently and in duplicate. Where information was unclear we contacted study authors for clarification.

MAIN RESULTS

Eight studies, recruiting over 700 participants, compared the use of dental cavity liners to no liners for Class I and Class II resin-based composite restorations.Seven studies evaluated postoperative hypersensitivity measured by various methods. All studies were at unclear or high risk of bias. There was inconsistent evidence regarding postoperative hypersensitivity (either measured using cold response or patient-reported), with a benefit shown at some, but not all, time points (low-quality evidence).Four trials measured restoration longevity. Two of the studies were judged to be at high risk and two at unclear risk of bias. No difference in restoration failure rates were shown at 1 year follow-up, with no failures reported in either group for three of the four studies; the fourth study had a risk ratio (RR) 1.00 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.07 to 15.00) (low-quality evidence). Three studies evaluated restoration longevity at 2 years follow-up and, again, no failures were shown in either group.No adverse events were reported in any of the included studies.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is inconsistent, low-quality evidence regarding the difference in postoperative hypersensitivity subsequent to placing a dental cavity liner under Class I and Class II posterior resin-based composite restorations in permanent posterior teeth in adults or children 15 years or older. Furthermore, no evidence was found to demonstrate a difference in the longevity of restorations placed with or without dental cavity liners.

Clinical performance of bulk-fill and conventional resin composite restorations in posterior teeth: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this systematic review was to compare the clinical performance of bulk-fill resin composites with conventional resin composites used for direct restorations of posterior teeth.

METHODS

This review followed the PRISMA statement. This review was registered at PROSPERO (registration number CRD42016053436). A search of the scientific literature was performed by two independent reviewers using the PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, The Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases from commencement until January 2018. The research question was "Do bulk-fill resin composites have a clinical performance comparable to conventional resin composites in posterior restorations?" Only studies evaluating class I and II direct restorations in permanent teeth with a follow-up period of at least 1 year were included. The RevMan 5 program was used for meta-analysis, calculating the relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of the dichotomous outcome (restoration failure or success).

RESULTS

Ten articles were selected, comprising 941 analyzed restorations. The mean follow-up period was 33.6 months (12-72 months). No statistically significant differences in the failure rate were observed between conventional and base/flowable bulk-fill resin composites (p = 0.31; RR 1.49; 95% CI 0.69-3.25) or full-body/sculptable bulk-fill resin composites (p = 0.12; RR 1.89; 95% CI 0.84-4.24).

CONCLUSIONS

The present systematic review and meta-analysis indicate similar clinical performances of bulk-fill and conventional resin composites over a follow-up period of 12 to 72 months.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Based on the results of this study, the bulk-fill resin composites could be an alternative for direct restorations in posterior teeth. However, clinical trials of longer duration are required.

An end to linings under posterior composites?

BACKGROUND AND OVERVIEW

There is an uncertainty among dentists as to whether to place a lining under a direct posterior composite restoration and, if so, what material or combination of materials to use. In this article, the authors consider the evidence for the placement of a lining under posterior composites of different depths, including indications and contraindications for different lining materials.

CONCLUSIONS

The available evidence does not support the use of linings under direct, bonded posterior composites, unless being placed in deep cavities for therapeutic reasons.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS

The best available evidence indicates that dentists can place posterior composites without linings, except for therapeutic purposes, with no adverse effect on postoperative complications, with possible improvements in performance in clinical service, and with efficiency savings in chairside time.

Clinical performance of laminate and non-laminate resin composite restorations: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

A systematic review was undertaken to determine the clinical outcomes of resin modified glass-ionomer cement or glass-ionomer cement-resin composite (RMGIC/GIC-RC) laminate restorations and flowable resin composite (FRC)-lined RC restorations compared to that of non-laminate RC restorations.

METHODS

Electronic databases were searched and filtered for relevant papers by assessing titles, abstracts and full-text articles. Randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs) were included, comparing the clinical performance of RMGIC/GIC-RC laminate restorations and FRC-lined restorations with RC restorations as the control. The articles were categorized and critically appraised. Raw data were used for a fixed effects meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Thirteen articles were included in the review. Five evaluated FRC-lined restorations, and eight studies evaluated RMGIC/GIC-RC laminate restorations, comparing with non-laminate RC restorations. Three of eight RMGIC/GIC-RC laminate restorations assessed only postoperative sensitivity. A meta-analysis could only be conducted in three studies with the FRC-lined restorations as the intervention. The meta-analysis found no significant difference in clinical failures between FRC-lined RC restorations and RC restorations with no lining (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Based on current clinical evidence, a FRC lining is no more advantageous than RC restorations with no FRC lining. More long-term RCTs are required, particularly for evaluating RMGIC/GIC-RC laminate restorations.

The effect of a dentin desensitizer on the shear bond strength of composite to dentin using three different bonding agents: An in vitro study

Objective:

The effect of dentin desensitizer Systemp on the shear bond strength of composite resin to dentin using three different bonding agents, i.e., Prime & Bond NT, Xeno V⁺, and Futurabond DC were evaluated.

Materials and Methods:

Sixty recently extracted human premolars were divided into six groups of ten teeth each. The superficial dentin was etched with 37% phosphoric acid. In Groups I, II, and III, Prime & Bond NT, Xeno V⁺, and Futurabond DC, respectively, were applied to dentin and composite placed. Following application of dentin desensitizer Systemp in Groups IV, V, and VI, Prime & Bond NT, Xeno V⁺, and Futurabond DC, respectively, were applied to dentin and composite placed. The shear bond strength was evaluated. Data obtained were statistically analyzed using one-way analysis of variance, post hoc, and Dunnett's test.

Results:

Following application of dentin desensitizer Systemp, mean shear bond strength increased when Prime & Bond NT bonding agent was used while it decreased for Xeno V⁺ and Futurabond DC bonding agents.

Conclusion:

Within the limitations of this in vitro study, it was observed that following application of dentin desensitizer Systemp, mean shear bond strength may increase or decrease depending on the bonding agents used.

Incompatibility of Oxalate Desensitizers with Acidic, Fluoride-containing Total-etch Adhesives

The use of oxalate desensitizers on acid-etched dentin prior to adhesive application can result in subsurface tubular occlusion by calcium oxalate crystals. However, the solubility of calcium oxalate increases in acidic solution. We hypothesized that total-etch adhesives can, depending upon their pH, interact with oxalate-desensitizer-treated dentin in an adverse manner. Acid-etched human dentin treated with 2 oxalate desensitizers (BisBlock and Super Seal) was bonded with 4 simplified total-etch adhesives: One-Step (OS), Single Bond (SB), OptiBond Solo Plus (OB), and Prime&Bond NT (PB). Composite-dentin beams were examined by SEM and TEM, both of which revealed numerous spherical globules on OB- and PB-bonded, desensitizer-treated dentin, but not in OS or SB samples. Bond strengths produced by OB and PB were significantly lower in oxalate-treated specimens than those produced by OS or SB. These surface globules may have interfered with hybridization of demineralized dentin with OB and PB resins and caused compromised bond strengths.

WITHDRAWN: Pulp management for caries in adults: maintaining pulp vitality

BACKGROUND

There is a range of treatment options for the management of the pulp in extensively decayed teeth. These include direct and indirect pulp capping, pulpotomy or pulpectomy. If the tooth is symptomatic or if there are periapical bone changes, then endodontic treatment is required. However, if the tooth is asymptomatic but the caries is extensive, there is no consensus as to the best method of management. In addition, there has been a recent move towards using alternative materials and methods such as the direct or indirect placement of bonding agents and mineral trioxide aggregate.Most studies have investigated the management of asymptomatic carious teeth with or without an exposed dental pulp using various capping materials (e.g. calcium hydroxide, Ledermix, Triodent, Biorex, etc.). However, there is no long term data regarding the outcome of management of asymptomatic, carious teeth according to different regimens.

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to assess the effectiveness of techniques used to treat asymptomatic carious teeth and maintain pulp vitality.

SEARCH METHODS

Electronic searches of the following databases were undertaken: The Cochrane Oral Health Group's Trials Register (March 2006), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library 2006, Issue 1), MEDLINE (1966 to week 4, February 2006), EMBASE (1974 to 13 March 2006), National Research Register (March 2006), Science Citation Index - SCISEARCH (1981 to March 2006). Detailed search strategies were developed for each database. Handsearching and screening of reference lists were undertaken. There was no restriction with regard to language of publication.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Studies included were randomised controlled trials (RCTs). Asymptomatic vital permanent teeth with extensive caries were included. Studies were those which compared techniques to maintain pulp vitality. Outcome measures included clinical success and adverse events.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Data were independently extracted by three review authors. Authors were contacted for details of randomisation and withdrawals and a quality assessment was carried out. The Cochrane Collaboration's statistical guidelines were followed.

MAIN RESULTS

Only four RCTs were identified. Interventions examined included: Ledermix, glycerrhetinic acid/antibiotic mix, zinc oxide eugenol, calcium hydroxide, Cavitec, Life, Dycal, potassium nitrate, dimethyl isosorbide, and polycarboxylate cement. Only one study showed a statistically significant finding; potassium nitrate/dimethyl isosorbide/polycarboxylate cement resulted in fewer clinical symptoms than potassium nitrate/polycarboxylate cement or polycarboxylate cement alone when used as a capping material for carious pulps.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

It was disappointing that there were so few studies which could be considered as being suitable for inclusion in this review. The findings from this review do not suggest that there should be any significant change from accepted conventional practice procedures when the pulp of the carious tooth is considered. Further well designed RCTs are needed to investigate the potential of contemporary materials which may be suitable when used in the management of carious teeth. It is recognised that it is difficult to establish the 'ideal' clinical study when ethical approval for new materials must be sought and strict attention to case selection, study protocol and interpretation of data is considered. It is also not easy to recruit sufficient numbers of patients meeting the necessary criteria.

Influence of Adhesive Type and Placement Technique on Postoperative Sensitivity in Posterior Composite Restorations

PURPOSE

This double blind, randomized clinical trial compared the postoperative sensitivity of the placement technique (incremental and bulk fill) in posterior composite resin restorations bonded with two different adhesive strategies (self-etch and etch-and-rinse).

METHODS

Posterior dental cavities of 72 participants (n=236), with a cavity depth of at least 3 mm, were randomly divided into four groups. The restorations were bonded using either the etch-and-rinse Tetric N-Bond (Ivoclar Vivadent) or the self-etch Tetric N-Bond SE (Ivoclar Vivadent). The composite resin Tetric N-Ceram Bulk Fill (Ivoclar Vivadent) was placed either incrementally or using the bulk-fill technique. Two experienced and calibrated examiners evaluated the restorations using World Dental Federation criteria after one week of clinical service. Spontaneous postoperative sensitivity was assessed using a 0-4 numerical rating scale and a 0-10 and 0-100 visual analog scale up to 48 h after the restorative procedure and after one week.

RESULTS

The risk (p>0.49) and intensity of spontaneous postoperative sensitivity (p>0.38) was not affected by the adhesive strategy or the filling technique. The overall risk of postoperative sensitivity was 20.3% (95% confidence interval 15.7-25.9) and typically occurred within 48 hours after the restorative procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

The overall risk of immediate postoperative sensitivity was 20.3% and was not affected by either the adhesive strategy (etch-and-rinse/self-etch) or the filling technique (incremental/ bulk).

Dental cavity liners for Class I and Class II resin-based composite restorations

BACKGROUND

Resin-based composite (RBC) is currently accepted as a viable material for the restoration of caries for posterior permanent teeth requiring surgical treatment. Despite the fact that the thermal conductivity of the RBC restorative material closely approximates that of natural tooth structure, postoperative hypersensitivity is sometimes still an issue. Dental cavity liners have historically been used to protect the pulp from the toxic effects of some dental restorative materials and to prevent the pain of thermal conductivity by placing an insulating layer between restorative material and the remaining tooth structure.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this review was to assess the effects of using dental cavity liners in the placement of Class I and Class II resin-based composite posterior restorations in permanent teeth in children and adults.

SEARCH METHODS

Cochrane Oral Health's Information Specialist searched the following databases: Cochrane Oral Health's Trials Register (to 25 May 2016), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; 2016, Issue 4) in the Cochrane Library (searched 25 May 2016), MEDLINE Ovid (1946 to 25 May 2016), Embase Ovid (1980 to 25 May 2016) and LILACS BIREME Virtual Health Library (Latin American and Caribbean Health Science Information database; 1982 to 25 May 2016). We searched ClinicalTrials.gov and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform for ongoing trials. No restrictions were placed on the language or date of publication when searching the electronic databases.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomized controlled trials assessing the effects of the use of liners under Class I and Class II posterior resin-based composite restorations in permanent teeth (in both adults and children). We included both parallel and split-mouth designs.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We utilized standard methodological procedures prescribed by Cochrane for data collection and analysis. Two review authors screened the search results and assessed the eligibility of studies for inclusion against the review inclusion criteria. We conducted risk of bias assessments and data extraction independently and in duplicate. Where information was unclear we contacted study authors for clarification.

MAIN RESULTS

Eight studies, recruiting over 700 participants, compared the use of dental cavity liners to no liners for Class I and Class II resin-based composite restorations.Seven studies evaluated postoperative hypersensitivity measured by various methods. All studies were at unclear or high risk of bias. There was inconsistent evidence regarding postoperative hypersensitivity (either measured using cold response or patient-reported), with a benefit shown at some, but not all, time points (low-quality evidence).Four trials measured restoration longevity. Two of the studies were judged to be at high risk and two at unclear risk of bias. No difference in restoration failure rates were shown at one year follow-up, with no failures reported in either group for three of the four studies; the fourth study had a risk ratio (RR) 1.00 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.07 to 15.00) (low-quality evidence). Three studies evaluated restoration longevity at two years follow-up and, again, no failures were shown in either group.No adverse events were reported in any of the included studies.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is inconsistent, low-quality evidence regarding the difference in postoperative hypersensitivity subsequent to placing a dental cavity liner under Class I and Class II posterior resin-based composite restorations in permanent posterior teeth in adults or children 15 years or older. Furthermore, no evidence was found to demonstrate a difference in the longevity of restorations placed with or without dental cavity liners.

Cytotoxicity of Two-step Self-etching Primer/Adhesives on L929 Cells

The cytotoxicity of four self-etching primer/adhesive systems (Clearfil® SE Bond, Clearfil® Protect Bond, Mac Bond® II and FL® Bond) was tested against L929 fibroblasts. The primer or adhesive component of each adhesive system was diluted serially with the culture medium at a ratio of 1:1,000 and 1:4,000 (v/v). Cytotoxicity was identified by adding L929 cells in 24-well culture plates at an initial density of 35,000 cells mL 1. The cells were maintained for 5 days; every 24h, the medium was changed with fresh medium containing specific dilutions of the primer or adhesive components of the test materials. Cytotoxicity was assessed quantitatively at 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120h. Physiological and pathological cellular changes as well as reactions and growth of the cell cultures were examined under an inverted microscope. All self-etching systems were found to be cytotoxic to varying degrees; more pronounced toxic effects were observed at lower dilution (1:1,000 [v/v]). The adhesive components of Mac Bond® II and FL® Bond showed the highest cytotoxicity at 1:1,000 (v/v). The primer and adhesive of Clearfil® SE Bond, the primer of Mac Bond® II and the antibacterial monomer (MDPB)-containing Clearfil® Protect Bond (at 1:4,000 [v/v]) were relatively less cytotoxic.

Microshear Bond Strength of OptiBond All-in-One Self-adhesive Agent to Er:YAG Laser Treated Enamel After Thermocycling and Water Storage

Introduction: This study aimed to compare the microshear bond strength of composite to enamel treated with Erbium-Doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet (Er:YAG) laser using a self-etch one step bonding agent. Methods: Seventy-six enamel surfaces were prepared from 38 sound human third molar teeth. Specimens were randomly divided into four groups of 18. The enamel surface in half the specimens was irradiated with Er:YAG laser. One extra specimen from each group was evaluated under a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Composite micro-cylinders were bonded to the specimen surfaces using OptiBond All-In-One (OB) adhesive agent and stored in distilled water for 24 hours. Half the specimens were thermocycled (2000 cycles) and stored in distilled water at 37°C for three months (TW). The microshear bond strength of composite to enamel was measured using a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min. The fractured surfaces were evaluated under a stereomicroscope at ×40 magnification to determine the mode of failure. Data were analyzed using repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) and t test. Results: The mean values (±standard deviation) were 17.96 ± 2.92 MPa in OB group, 22.29 ± 4.25 MPa in laser + OB group, 18.11 ± 3.52 MPa in laser + OB + TW group and 9.42 ± 2.47 MPa in OB + TW group. Repeated measures ANOVA showed that laser irradiation increased the microshear bond strength (P < 0.001). Bond strength decreased when the samples were thermocycled and stored for three months (P < 0.001). The interaction effect of water storage and laser treatment on bond strength was significant (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Enamel surface preparation with Er:YAG laser is recommended to enhance the durability of the bond of self-etch bonding systems to enamel.

Effect of Restorative System and Thermal Cycling on the Tooth-Restoration Interface – OCT Evaluation

The present study evaluated the tooth/noncarious cervical lesion restoration interface when using different adhesive systems and resin composites, submitted to thermal cycling (TC), using optical coherence tomography (OCT). Noncarious cervical lesion (NCCL) preparations (0.7 mm depth × 2 mm diameter) were performed on 60 human third molars and randomly divided into six groups, according to the adhesive system and resin composite used: group 1 = Adper Single Bond 2 (SB2) + Aelite LS Posterior (AP); group 2 = SB2 + Venus Diamond (VD); group = SB2 + Filtek Z250XT (Z250); group 4 = Clearfil SE Bond (CSE) + AP; group 5 = CSE + VD; group 6 = CSE + Z250. Selective enamel etching was performed for 30 seconds on groups 4, 5, and 6, while groups 1, 2, and 3 were etched for 30 seconds in enamel and 15 seconds in dentin. All groups were evaluated using OCT before and after TC (n=10). Images were analyzed using Image J software; enamel and dentin margins were separately evaluated. Data from OCT were submitted to PROC MIXED for repeated measurements and Tukey Kramer test (α = 0.05). No marginal gaps were observed in etched enamel, either before or after TC, for all adhesive and resin composite systems. A significant interaction was found between adhesive system and TC for the dentin groups; after TC, restorations with CSE showed smaller gaps at the dentin/restoration interface compared with SB2 for all resin composites. Increased gap percentages were noticed after TC compared with the gaps before TC for all groups. In conclusion, TC affected marginal integrity only in dentin margins, whereas etched enamel margins remained stable even after TC. Dentin margins restored with CSE adhesive system showed better marginal adaptation than those restored with SB2. Resin composites did not influence marginal integrity of NCCL restorations.

The effect of bonding and surface sealant application on postoperative sensitivity from posterior composites

PURPOSE

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the postoperative sensitivity of posterior Class I composite restoration at short-term, restorated with two different all-in-one self-etch adhesives with or without surface sealant application.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

44 restorations were inserted in 11 patients who required Class I restorations in their molars. Each patient received 4 restorations, thus four groups were formed; (1) G-Aenial Bond (GC, Japan); (2) Clearfil S3 Bond (Kuraray, Japan); (3) G-Aenial Bond+Fortify Plus (Bisco, USA), (4) Clearfil S3 Bond+Fortify Plus. Sensitivity was evaluated at 24h, 7, 15, and 30 days using cold air, ice, and pressure stimuli using a visual analog scale. Comparisons of continuous variables between the sensitivity evaluations were performed using the Friedman's One-Way Analysis of Variance with repeated measures test (p<0.05).

RESULTS

The type of adhesive used and the application of a surface sealant had no significant effects in postoperative sensitivity (p>0.05). The use of Clearfil S3 Bond resulted in almost the same level of postoperative sensitivity as did the use of G-Aenial Bond. The highest sensitivity scores were observed for the surface sealant applied teeth without any statistical significance (p>0.05).

CONCLUSION

Self etch adhesives displayed postoperative sensitivity. The sensitivity scores slightly decreased at the end of 30 days (p>0.05). Surface sealant application did not result in a decrease in sensitivity scores for either dentin adhesives.

Does the adhesive strategy influence the post-operative sensitivity in adult patients with posterior resin composite restorations?: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed on the risk and intensity of postoperative sensitivity (POS) in posterior resin composite restorations bonded with self-etch (SE) and etch-and-rinse (ER) adhesives.

SOURCE

A comprehensive search was performed in the MEDLINE via PubMeb, Scopus, Web of Science, LILACS, BBO and Cochrane Library and SIGLE without restrictions. The abstracts of the annual conference of the IADR (1990-2014), unpublished and ongoing trials registry were also searched. Dissertations and theses were searched using the ProQuest Dissertations and Periodicos Capes Theses databases.

STUDY SELECTION

We included randomized clinical trials that compared the clinical effectiveness of SE and ER used for direct resin composite restorations in permanent dentition of adult patients. The risk/intensity of POS was the primary outcome. The risk of bias tool of the Cochrane Collaboration was used. The meta-analysis was performed on the studies considered 'low' risk of bias.

DATA

After duplicates removal, 2600 articles were identified but only 29 remained in the qualitative synthesis. Five were considered to be 'high' risk of bias and eleven were considered to be 'unclear' in the key domains, yielding 13 studies for meta-analysis. The overall relative risk of the spontaneous POS was 0.63 (95% CI 0.35 to 1.15), while the stimuli-induced POS was 0.99 (95% CI 0.63 to 1.56). The overall standardized mean difference was 0.08 (95%CI -0.19 to 0.35). No overall effect was revealed in the meta-analyses, meaning that no influence of the ER or SE strategy on POS.

SIGNIFICANCE

The type of adhesive strategy (ER or SE) for posterior resin composite restorations does not influence the risk and intensity of POS. CRD42014006617.

Effect of different adhesive strategies on the post-operative sensitivity of class I composite restorations

Objective:

To evaluate the post-operative sensitivity of occlusal restorations using different dentin adhesives performed by an undergraduate and a post-doctorate dentist.

Materials and Methods:

One hundred and eighty-eight molar occlusal restorations were placed in 39 patients (ages between 18 and 30) using 3 different kind of adhesive systems; Optibond FL (OBF), Clearfil Protect Bond (CPB), and iBond (IB) by a post-doctorate dentist or a fifth-year dental student according to the manufacturers’ instructions. Post-operative sensitivity to cold and air was evaluated using a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) after 24 hours, 30, 90, and 180 days. Data were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U and Friedman tests (P < 0.05).

Results:

Post-operative sensitivity scores for OBF and CPB were higher for the dental student (P < 0.05), while IB scores did not differ statistical significantly according to the operator (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

Operator skill and experience appears to play a role in determining the outcome of post-operative sensitivity of multi-step adhesive systems although the post-operative sensitivity was low. It is suggested that the less experienced clinicians (rather than experienced clinicians) should better use the self-etching dentin bonding systems with reduced application steps to minimize the potential risk of post-operative sensitivity of dental adhesives.

A randomized clinical trial of the effect of low-level laser therapy before composite placement on postoperative sensitivity in class V restorations

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of low-level laser irradiation when applied just before placement of resin composite on reducing postoperative sensitivity of class V lesions. In this randomized clinical trial, 31 patients with 62 class V cavities were included (two teeth in each participant). The teeth were randomly assigned into laser and placebo groups. After cavity preparation, the teeth in the experimental group were subjected to irradiation from a low-power red laser (630 nm, 28 mW, continuous wave, 60 s, 1.68 J), which was applied for 1 min on the axial wall of the cavity. In the control group, the same procedure was performed but with laser simulation. Then, a self-etch adhesive was applied and the cavities were restored with a microhybrid resin composite. Before treatment and on days 1, 14, and 30 after treatment, tooth sensitivity to a cold stimulus was recorded using a visual analogue scale. Data were analyzed by Friedman and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests (p < 0.05). Pain scores after restorative procedures were significantly lower in the laser group compared to the placebo application (p < 0.05). Although both groups experienced a significant improvement in pain and discomfort throughout the follow-up periods (p < 0.001), the changes in visual analogue scale (VAS) scores between baseline and each follow-up examination were significantly greater in the laser than the placebo group (p < 0.05). Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) before placement of resin composite could be suggested as a suitable approach to reduce postoperative sensitivity in class V restorations.

Effects of the application sequence of calcium-containing desensitising pastes during etch-and-rinse adhesive restoration

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effects of different application sequence of calcium-containing desensitising pastes on bonding effectiveness and tubule occlusion during etch-and-rinse (E&R) adhesive restoration.

METHODS

Seventy molars were sectioned parallel to the occlusal plane, polished and randomly divided into seven groups (n=10). Group 1 was etched with 35% phosphoric acid for 15s. Groups 2-4 were treated with different calcium-containing desensitisers, including an arginine-calcium carbonate (Arg-CaCO3)-containing paste, a casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP)-containing paste and a calcium-sodium phosphosilicate (Novamin)-containing paste, respectively. Afterward, these groups were etched with 35% phosphoric acid for 15s. Groups 5-7 were initially etched and then treated with Arg-CaCO3-, CPP-ACP- and Novamin-containing desensitisers, respectively. In each group, samples were equally distributed into two subgroups (n=5) to bond with either a two-step E&R adhesive Adper SingleBond 2 (SB) or a three-step E&R adhesive Adper ScotchBond Multi-Purpose (SBMP). The microtensile bond strengths (MTBS) were tested and fracture modes were analyzed by stereomicroscopy and field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). Eight additional dentine disks were prepared to evaluate tubule occlusion prior to bonding using FESEM.

RESULTS

The application sequence of calcium-containing desensitising pastes did not significantly affect MTBS irrespective of two-step SB (P>0.05) or three-step SBMP E&R adhesives (P>0.05). Effective dentinal tubule occlusion was observed in the mode of etching-desensitising.

CONCLUSIONS

Applying calcium-containing desensitisers (particularly Arg-CaCO3- and Novamin-based) after etching during E&R adhesive restoration could achieve effective tubule occlusion without affecting the bonding strength.

Critical appraisal: post-op sensitivity with direct composite restorations

Sales of self-etch adhesive systems have grown considerably over the last 10 to 12 years. One of the most important factors contributing to this growth is the perception that self-etch adhesives cause less postoperative sensitivity than etch-and-rinse adhesives. Certainly, there is much anecdotal evidence supporting this perception. But what does the science say? This Critical Appraisal presents evidence from several clinical trials of postoperative sensitivity in posterior composite restorations.

A Retrospective Clinical Study of Cervical Restorations: Longevity and Failure-Prognostic Variables

The aim of this retrospective clinical study was to compare the longevity of cervical restorations between resin composite (RC) and glass ionomer (GI) and to investigate variables predictive of their outcome. The clinical performance of the two restorative materials in function was compared using the ratings of the modified United States Public Health Service (USPHS) criteria. A total of 479 cervical restorations were included in the study. Ninety-one already-replaced restorations were reviewed from dental records. The other 388 restorations still in function were evaluated according to the modified USPHS criteria by two investigators. Longevity and prognostic variables were analyzed with the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and multivariate Cox proportional hazard model. The clinical performances of the two materials were evaluated according to the ratings of the USPHS criteria and compared using the Pearson chi-square test and Fisher exact test. The longevity was not significantly different between RC and GI (median survival time, 10.4 ± 0.7 and 11.5 ± 1.1 years, respectively). The main reasons for failure were loss of retention (82.2%) and secondary caries (17.8%). The longevity of cervical restoration was significantly influenced by tooth group and operator group (Wald test, p&lt;0.05), while material, gender, presence or absence of systemic diseases, arch, and reason for treatment did not affect the longevity. Contrary to the longevity, the clinical performance of RC was superior to GI in the criteria of retention, marginal discoloration, and marginal adaptation, but similar in secondary caries, wear, and postoperative sensitivity.

Two-year clinical study on postoperative pulpal complications arising from the absence of a glass-ionomer lining in deep occlusal resin-composite restorations

AIM

To observe the effects of glass-ionomer cement (GIC) lining on the risk of pulpal complications in deep occlusal cavities with resin-based restorations.

METHODS

Fifty-three patients, aged 18-30 years, who had one or two deep occlusal carious lesions (≥3 mm in depth) in molars, were recruited. Dental caries were removed, and the prepared cavity was restored with resin composite using one of two restorative procedures: (a) without GIC lining; and (b) with (resin-modified) GIC lining. Restored teeth were evaluated for any pulpal complications (subjective symptoms, objective signs or loss of tooth vitality) at 1 month (baseline), 1 year, and 2 years after restoration.

RESULTS

After excluding shallow cavities, 31 restorations without GIC lining, and 31 restorations with GIC lining, were placed and recalled at baseline without any pulpal complications. At the 1- and 2-year recalls, six patients who had restorations in group 1, and 13 in group 2, had dropped out. None of the remaining teeth in the two groups exhibited pulpal complications at either recall period, regardless of GIC lining placement.

CONCLUSIONS

The absence of GIC lining does not increase the risk of pulpal complications in deep occlusal cavities restored with resin-based restorations in either the short or long term.

The influence of the energy density and other clinical parameters on bond strength of Er:YAG-conditioned dentin compared to conventional dentin adhesion

The aim of this in vitro study was to optimise clinical parameters and the energy density of Er:YAG laser-conditioned dentin for class V fillings. Shear tests in three test series were conducted with 24 freshly extracted human third molars as samples for each series. For every sample, two orofacial and two approximal dentin surfaces were prepared. The study design included different laser energies, a thin vs a thick bond layer, the influence of adhesives as well as one-time- vs two-time treatment. The best results with Er:YAG-conditioned dentin were obtained with fluences just above the ablation threshold (5.3 J/cm(2)) in combination with a self-etch adhesive, a thin bond layer and when bond and composite were two-time cured. Dentin conditioned this way reached an averaged bond strength of 23.32 MPa (SD 5.3) and 24.37 MPa (SD 6.06) for two independent test surfaces while showing no statistical significance to conventional dentin adhesion and two-time treatment with averaged bond strength of 24.93 MPa (SD 11.51). Significant reduction of bond strength with Er:YAG-conditioned dentin was obtained when using either a thick bond layer, twice the laser energy (fluence 10.6 J/cm(2)) or with no dentin adhesive. The discussion showed clearly that in altered (sclerotic) dentin, e.g. for class V fillings of elderly patients, bond strengths in conventional dentin adhesion are constantly reduced due to the change of the responsibles, bond giving dentin structures, whereas for Er:YAG-conditioned dentin, the only way to get an optimal microretentive bond pattern is a laser fluence just above the ablation threshold of sclerotic dentin.

Components of patient satisfaction with a dental restorative visit: results from the Dental Practice-Based Research Network

BACKGROUND

The authors conducted a study to identify components of patient satisfaction with restorative dental care and to test the hypothesis that certain dentist, patient and procedure factors are associated with patient satisfaction.

METHODS

Practitioner-investigators (P-Is) from 197 practices in The Dental Practice-Based Research Network (DPBRN) recruited consecutively seen patients who had defective permanent-tooth restorations that were replaced or repaired. At the end of the treatment visit, P-Is asked each participant to complete a satisfaction survey and mail it directly to a DPBRN regional coordinator.

RESULTS

Analysis of the results of 5,879 satisfaction surveys revealed three satisfaction components: interpersonal relationship-comfort factors, material choice-value factors and sensory-evaluative factors. Satisfaction was highest among patients who received care in a private practice model, whose restorations were repaired rather than replaced and whose restored teeth were not molars.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that a patient's judgments of a dentist's skills and quality of care are based on personal interactions with the dentist, the level of comfort the patient perceives while receiving care and any experience of posttreatment sensitivity in the treated tooth. These conclusions have direct implications for management of patient care before, during and after the procedure.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

By taking a patient-centered approach, dentists should seek to understand how patients evaluate and rate the service provided, thereby enabling themselves to focus on what each patient values most.

Effect of dentin sealers on postoperative sensitivity of complete cast crowns cemented with glass ionomer cement

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to clinically evaluate the effects of pretreatments with copal/ether varnish and dentin bonding system on postoperative sensitivity of complete cast crowns cemented with glass ionomer cement.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Three posterior teeth with no pain symptoms were selected from each of 17 patients, totaling 51 teeth, for which a crown was indicated. Rexillium III complete cast crowns were prepared using conventional laboratory techniques. For each patient, the first tooth, which served as the control, received only glass ionomer cement (Ketac-Cem). Copal/ether varnish (Bosworth Copaliner) was applied to the second tooth preparation prior to cementation. Dentin bonding agent (OptiBond Solo Plus) was used on the third tooth before cementation. Sensitivity to different stimuli (cold, heat) was assessed at 7 days, 1 month, and 6 months following restorative procedures by questionnaire.

RESULTS

There were no statistically significant differences between the three groups regarding applied stimulus and day of the study (p > 0.05). No statistically significant differences were found between the postoperative sensitivity responses from 7 days to 1 month, and from 1 month to 6 months (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Postoperative sensitivity resulting from glass ionomer cement with complete cast crowns cannot be completely eliminated with the prior use of a cavity varnish or bonding agent.

Effect of Oxalate Desensitizer on the Durability of Resin-Bonded Interfaces

Despite oxalate desensitizer showing a decrease in the rate of resin-dentin bond degradation over time, it compromised the baseline bond strength of etch-and-rinse adhesives to dentin. Further investigation regarding reliability of the combination of oxalate desensitizers and etch-and-rinse adhesives is required prior to implementation of this approach in the clinical routine.

The influence of elastic modulus of base material on the marginal adaptation of direct composite restoration

This study compared the marginal adaptation of direct composites under base materials with different elastic moduli. MOD cavities were prepared in 30 teeth. The cervical margin was placed 1 mm above the cementoenamel junction (CEJ) in one side and 1 mm below the CEJ in dentin in the other. The teeth were randomly divided into the following six groups (five teeth each) according to the base materials used: No base (Group 1), experimental flowable composite (Group 2), Helioflow (Ivoclar Vivadent) (Group 3), Tetric Flow (Group 4), Heliomolar HB (Ivoclar Vivadent) (Group 5) and Fuji II LC (Group 6). In Group 1, after etching the cavity enamel with 35% phosphoric acid, the cavities were primed and bonded with AdheSE, then filled with Tetric Ceram according to the manufacturer's instructions. In the other groups, after placing the base materials (1 mm thick) into the cavity, the cavity was filled with Tetric Ceram using the same methods as in Group 1. After storing the specimens in distilled water for seven days, they were finished and polished. Using stereomicroscopy at 150x magnification, marginal adaptation of the specimens was determined and the percentage of the imperfect margin (IM%) in the pre-loaded specimens was calculated. A mechanical load was applied using a custom-made Chewing simulator. All specimens were submitted to 600,000 load cycles at 49N with a frequency of 2Hz. The IM% in the post-load specimens was calculated. Repeated measured one-way ANOVA with Tukey was applied to compare the IM% in the six groups at the 95% confidence level. The results of statistical analysis indicated that the IM% was Group 3, 4, 6 < or = 2 < or = 5 < or = 1.

The cytotoxic effects of resin-based sealers on dental pulp stem cells

AIM

To evaluate the effect of four current resin-based adhesives on expanded ex vivo human dental pulp mesenchymal stem cells (DP-MSCs).

METHODOLOGY

Dental pulp mesenchymal stem cells were derived from dental pulps of ten donors. After in vitro isolation, dental pulp stem cells were analysed using flow cytometry. The immunophenotype of DP-MSCs disclosed the homogeneous expression of the mesenchymal-related antigens CD29, CD44, CD73, CD90, CD105, CD166. DP-MSCs were exposed to four different commercially available bonding systems (CMF Bond, Prime&Bond NT, Clearfil S(3) Bond, XP Bond), and after 24, 48 and 72 h of incubation the morphological features and the cell growth were analysed. Moreover, the cell viability was evaluated at the same times by MTT assay. Data were statistically analysed using a two-way anova and Holm-Sidak method (alpha set at 0.05).

RESULTS

Significant differences were observed between the four groups when comparing DP-MSCs appearance. DP-MSCs survived and proliferated without inhibition in the presence of CMF Bond adhesive. On the contrary, microscopic evaluation of the other three groups revealed extensive cytotoxic effects from the dentine bonding agents. The MTT assay revealed no statistically significant differences in cell viability after 72 h between the control group and CMF Bond group. All the other experimental groups had statistically lower optical density values.

CONCLUSIONS

CMF Bond adhesive allowed human dental pulp stem cells to survive and proliferate. All of the other dentine bonding agents had extensive cytotoxic effects.

Occurrence and causing stimuli of postoperative sensitivity in composite restorations

Despite improvements in composite treatments over the past decade, postoperative sensitivity still remains a problem. Therefore, this clinical study evaluated the appearance of postoperative sensitivity after composite treatments and the stimuli that may have caused it. A total of 600 teeth in 231 patients was included in this study. All treatments were performed by dental students working under close supervision following standard procedures and using the bonding system Optibond FL and the nanofilled composite Ceram X. At baseline (visit 1), the restorations were grouped according to the following criteria: use of anesthesia, use of a rubber dam, indication for the restoration treatment, cavity class and clinical dimension of the cavity. After approximately two weeks (at visit 2), all the restorations were assessed and failure was defined if one of the following criteria occurred: a negative reaction to the vitality test, postoperative pain from masticatory forces or reported postoperative sensitivity by the patient. The reported postoperative sensitivity was specified with a visual analogue scale into hot/cold-sensitivity, sweet/soursensitivity, sharp/dull-sensitivity, spontaneous sensitivity and blistering/stinging-sensitivity. Failure was observed in 6% of the restorations. The statistical analysis showed that the clinical cavity depth turned out to be the only factor to have a significant influence on the appearance of postoperative sensitivity: caries profunda showed a four times higher risk of failure, while cavities with pulp exposure had a 14 times higher failure risk compared to restorations that were localized in the dentin. With regard to the type of sensitivity, no patients reported sensitivity to sweet/sour; most of them described their sensitivity as sharp/dull.

Effect of Glass-ionomer Cement Lining on Postoperative Sensitivity in Occlusal Cavities Restored with Resin Composite—A Randomized Clinical Trial

Glass-ionomer lining showed no benefit in reducing postoperative sensitivity associated with occlusal resin composite restorations. The use of self-etching adhesive demonstrated postoperative sensitivity similar to that of total-etching adhesive.