Preheated Composite for Prosthetic Cementation to Enamel and Dentin: A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Restorative Dentistry

Background:

• Preheated composite resins are explored as advanced luting agents.
• They offer potential improvements in mechanical resistance, color stability, and adaptation over conventional materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically review literature on preheated composites as luting agents on dentin and enamel.
• To evaluate their mechanical behavior, optical properties, and biological effects.
• To compare clinical outcomes with conventional resin cements.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search (2015-2025) following PRISMA-ScR guidelines.
• Inclusion of in vitro studies comparing preheated composites with other luting agents on human, bovine, or analog dentin/enamel.
• Screening, evaluation, and synthesis of eligible studies.

Main Results:

• Fifteen studies met inclusion criteria, focusing on mechanical performance (9 studies) and other properties (6 studies).
• Preheated composites demonstrated superior mechanical properties, marginal adaptation, and fracture resistance.
• Color stability was generally unaffected, but pulpal temperature could increase, especially with thin residual dentin.

Conclusions:

• Preheated composite resins show promise for improved clinical outcomes in luting applications.
• Performance is technique-sensitive, influenced by operator skill, restoration thickness, and material choice.
• Careful handling and appropriate application are crucial for realizing the potential benefits of preheated composites.