Postoperative sensitivity of self etch versus total etch adhesive.

OBJECTIVE To compare postoperative sensitivity following composite restoration placed in supra gingival class-V cavities using self etch adhesive and total etch adhesive. STUDY DESIGN A randomized clinical trial. PLACE AND DURATION OF STUDY Operative Dentistry Department of Armed Forces Institute of Dentistry, Rawalpindi, from July to December 2009. METHODOLOGY A total of 70 patients having class-V supra gingival carious lesions were divided into two groups. Classes-V cavities not exceeding 3 mm were prepared. One treatment group was treated with self etch adhesive (adhe SE one Ivoclar) and the control group was treated with total-etch adhesive (Eco-Etch Ivoclar) after acid etching with 37% phosphoric acid. Light cured composite (Te-Econom Ivoclar) restoration was placed for both groups and evaluated for postoperative sensitivity immediately after restoration, after 24 hours and after one week. Data was recorded on visual analogue scale. RESULTS Comparison of sensitivity between the two treatment groups on application cold stimulus after 24 hours of restoration showed significant difference; however, no statistically significant difference was observed at baseline, immediately after restoration and at 1 week follow-up with cold stimulus or compressed air application. CONCLUSION Less postoperative sensitivity was observed at postoperative 24 hours assessment in restoration placed using SE adhesives compared to TE adhesives. Thus, the use of SE adhesives may be helpful in reducing postoperative sensitivity during 24 hours after restoration placement.