A comparative evaluation of dentinal hypersensitivity and microleakage associated with composite restorations in cavities preconditioned with air abrasion - An ex vivo study

Background and Objective: Enormous advances have been made in adhesives; however, the problem of post-operative sensitivity has dragged along. Enough literature exists on the effect of air abrasion over bond strength of composites. However, not much is reported on its relation with microleakage and post operative sensitivity. Therefore, the aim of the study was to compare and evaluate dentinal hypersensitivity and microleakage associated with composite restorations in cavities preconditioned with air abrasion. Study Design: Fifteen patients were selected for the study who had to undergo extractions of both maxillary first premolars. On each patient, occlusally placed Class V cavities were made using rotary burs on both the premolars. On the right side premolar, restoration was done using total etch technique. On the left side premolar, restoration was done in similar way after preconditioning of the cavity with air abrasion. Sensitivity levels were recorded on a modified visual analogue scale preoperatively and post operatively at 1 week and one month time period. Following extraction, dye penetration test was done and 1 sample each from one group was subjected to Scanning Electron Microscope for evaluation of tooth restoration interface. Results: Clinically significant difference was there in post operative sensitivity levels after one month between the two groups. Increase in sensitivity was less in teeth restored after preconditioning with air abrasion. Dye penetration was also less in teeth restored after preconditioning with air abrasion. However, penetration at the gingival wall was more than the occlusal wall in both the groups. Conclusion: The study consolidates the fact that microleakage and post operative sensitivity are linked directly. It also proves that air abrasion can help in reducing the post operative sensitivity to a level; however, a larger sample size would be needed to obtain more robust results with stronger validation.