Postcementation hypersensitivity: Scientific data versus dentists’ perceptions

Abstract

Comparing respondents' opinions with published clinical studies, the incidence of postcementation sensitivity appears to be underestimated. There is little published evidence to support the importance of antimicrobials, desensitizing, or bonding agents, although these are considered effective by some dentists. Many respondents consider luting agent to be an important variable.

Comparative Analysis of Postcementation Hypersensitivity with Glass Ionomer Cement and a Resin Cement: An in vivo Study

“…Rosenstiel et al 13 in his study, showed that the incidence of this postoperative complication is usually underestimated by most dentists. The factors considered 'very important' in reducing sensitivity by more than 50% of the respondents to his survey study were desiccation, luting agent, occlusion, provisional and water spray.…”

Effect of Dentin Sealers on Postoperative Sensitivity of Complete Cast Crowns Cemented with Glass Ionomer Cement

“…The data support the null hypothesis of the study, that dentin desensitizer and dentin bonding agent would have no influence on complete cast crown postoperative sensitivity. Many treatment modalities and agents have been used in the treatment of dentin hypersensitivity, but the efficacy of most of them has been varied and not well established 18 . Specific studies on attempts to avoid the incidence of postoperative sensitivity in vivo following permanent cementation are very few and limited to providing an evaluation of these processes 18 …”

“…17 Various attempts have been made to reduce postoperative sensitivity, particularly in the choice of operative technique and the copious use of water cooling during tooth reduction. 11,18 Nevertheless, replacing a thermally insulating substance with a conducting metal can make prevention of thermal irritation a challenge, particularly after the pulpal tissues have suffered the insult of tooth preparation. 19 Traditionally two or three thin coats of a copal/ether varnish have been used under amalgam and crowns to provide a barrier against sensitivity.…”

Luting agents

“…Its primary indication is for metal and porcelain fused to metal restorations. 15 The material experiences a sudden set but continues to mature over several months prior to completion.…”