A Randomised Controlled Trial of Postoperative Sensitivity after Class II Restoration with Bulk-Fill vs Conventional...

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Dental Materials Science
• Restorative Dentistry

Background:

• Bulk-fill composites offer potential advantages in simplifying posterior restorations, reducing chair time and technical demands.
• Post-operative sensitivity is a common concern with posterior composite restorations; bulk-fill materials may offer a solution.
• This study investigated post-operative sensitivity in class II carious lesions restored with bulk-fill versus conventional layered composites.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare post-operative sensitivity between bulk-fill and conventional layered composite materials for class II posterior restorations.
• To evaluate if bulk-fill composites can mitigate post-operative sensitivity risks associated with posterior restorations.

Main Methods:

• A single-center, double-blinded, randomized controlled trial was conducted.
• Participants with class II carious lesions were randomized to receive either bulk-fill (Coltene Fill-UpTM) or conventional layered (Coltene Brilliant Everglow) composite restorations.
• The primary outcome measured was post-operative sensitivity at 24 hours.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant difference in post-operative sensitivity was observed between the bulk-fill and conventional composite groups at 24 hours or any other time point.
• Participant age and baseline sensitivity scores were significant factors influencing post-operative sensitivity.
• One restoration debonded in the bulk-fill group; no other adverse effects were reported. Placement time was similar for both groups.

Conclusions:

• Bulk-fill composite restorations demonstrated comparable post-operative sensitivity to conventional, incrementally cured composites for class II posterior restorations.
• The findings suggest that bulk-fill composites are a viable alternative for posterior restorations, offering similar clinical outcomes regarding sensitivity.
• Further research may explore long-term durability and other clinical performance aspects of bulk-fill materials.