Comparative Evaluation of Postoperative Sensitivity in Bulk Fill Restoratives: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Dental Materials Science

Background:

• Postoperative sensitivity (POS) is a common concern following dental restorations.
• Bulk fill restorative materials offer potential advantages in clinical efficiency.
• Evaluating the clinical performance of new bulk fill materials is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comparatively evaluate postoperative sensitivity (POS) in Class I posterior restorations.
• To assess the efficacy of Cention N, Equia Forte, and Activa™ Bioactive restorative materials.

Main Methods:

• 144 patients with occlusal caries received Class I restorations with Cention N, Equia Forte, or Activa™ Bioactive restorative material.
• Postoperative sensitivity was assessed using cold and air stimuli at 24 hours, 1 week, and 1 month.
• Visual analog scale and statistical analyses (paired t-test, ANOVA, Tukey's post hoc) were employed.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in POS were observed among the three groups at the 24-hour interval.
• Cention N exhibited higher POS compared to Equia Forte and Activa™ Bioactive restorative material.
• No significant difference in POS was found among the groups at 1 week and 1 month, with Activa™ Bioactive Restorative showing consistent low sensitivity.

Conclusions:

• Cention N demonstrated a higher incidence of postoperative sensitivity compared to Equia Forte and Activa™ Bioactive restorative material.
• Activa™ Bioactive Restorative and Equia Forte appear to be favorable choices for Class I posterior restorations regarding postoperative sensitivity.