A study of post-operative sensitivity in class I and class II restorations with self-etching adhesive and nanofilled composite.

AIM: The aim of the study was to determine the type, intensity and duration of post operative sensitivity (POS) in class I and II cavity restorations with self-etching adhesive and nanofilled composite. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The clinical study included 34 patients, who received a total of 76 restorations by undergraduate dental students. The restorations were made in medium and deep cavities. Self-etching adhesive Adper Promp L-Pop and nanocomposite Filtek Supreme (3MESPE Dental products USA) were placed. The type, the magnitude and the duration of postoperative sensitivity were examined on days 1, 3, 5, 7, 14 and 30. Intensity of sensitivity perceptions were recorded on a visual analogue scale using the method of self-observation. Parametric and non-parametric analyses were employed at a significance level of P < 0.05. RESULTS: Pressure-dependent POS was present in most of the cases (15.78% +/- 4.209), followed by discomfort (9.21% +/- 3.340) and pressure- and cold-induced pain (1.33% +/- 1.147). A statistically significant difference was found between days 1 and 3, and between days 5 and 30, as well as between days 7 and 30 (Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test, P < 0.05). Rapidly disappearing POS (within 1 week) had the highest percentage: 75% +/- 9.934. CONCLUSIONS: Following restoration of class I and II cavities with self-etching adhesive and nanofilled composite POS was established in 26.3% of the cases.