Inhibition of hybrid layer degradation by cavity pretreatment: Meta- and trial sequential analysis

Inhibition of hybrid layer degradation, for example via inhibition of matrix-metallo-proteinases (MMP) could reduce risk of retention loss and failure of adhesively placed restorations. This systematic review investigated such inhibitory pretreatment qualitatively and via meta- and trial-sequential-analysis.

We included randomized clinical trials comparing degradation inhibitory cavity pretreatment versus no, placebo or alternative treatments prior adhesive placement of resin-based restorations. Trials reporting retention loss or failure (graded bravo-delta in USPHS or similar criteria) were included. Trial selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment were conducted independently by two reviewers. Fixed- or random-effects intention-to-treat, per-protocol, and scenario meta-analyses were performed, and trial-sequential-analysis used to control for risk of random errors. Electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL) were systematically screened, and hand searches and cross-referencing performed.

The ten included trials involved 208 patients (695 cavities) and used chlorhexidine (seven trials), ethanol-wet-bonding (two trials), and quaternary ammonium compounds for degradation inhibition. All but one trial had high risk of bias. Follow-up ranged from 6 to 36 months. Risk of retention loss was not significantly decreased after pretreatment (per-protocol OR [95% CI] 1.37 [0.68/2.77], intention-to-treat: 1.25 [0.76/2.04]). This was found for risk of restoration failure as well (per-protocol: 0.86 [0.56/1.34], intention-to-treat: 1.22 [0.83/1.80]). Scenario analyses found great uncertainty introduced by attrition. According to trial sequential analysis, no firm evidence was reached.

There is insufficient evidence to recommend or refute degradation inhibitory cavity pretreatment prior adhesively placing resin-based restorations. This may change if teeth are followed-up for longer.

Dentists can perform cavity pretreatments for inhibition of hybrid layer degradation, but a beneficial effect is not supported by sufficient evidence. The impact of further effects (e.g. disinfection, pulp-irritation) remains unclear.