Effect of pulp protection technique on the clinical performance of amalgam restorations: three-year results

This study evaluated the influence of the pulp protection technique on clinical performance of amalgam restorations after three years, with particular reference to post-operative sensitivity and secondary caries. One hundred and twenty (120) Class II amalgam restorations (68 premolars, 52 molars; 78 MOD, 42 OD/MO) were placed in 30 participants (four restorations per participant). The restorations were divided into four groups according to the pulp protection technique used: copal varnish; 2% neutral sodium fluoride; adhesive resin and no pulp protection. The parameters evaluated were post-operative sensitivity, staining of the dental structure, tooth vitality, partial or total loss of the restoration and secondary caries. One hundred and eight (108) restorations were available for evaluation after three years. No partial or total loss of restorations had occurred; all teeth were vital, no tooth structure staining or secondary caries was detected in any of the restored teeth. Post-operative sensitivity was observed only in two restorations at baseline and at seven-days. The three-year clinical performance of teeth restored with a high copper dispersed phase amalgam was not affected by the choice of pulp protection technique.