Postoperative hypersensitivity in class I resin-based composite restorations in general practice: interim results.

Posterior permanent teeth with carious lesions radiographically extending no further than halfway into dentin (N = 565) were restored by 38 dentists in a practice-based research network, using a resin-based composite. Preoperative and 1-, 4-, and 13-week posttreatment hypersensitivity was recorded with an 11-point visual analog scale that was completed anonymously by participants. The analyses determined whether any correlation or association existed among several variables, including degree of carious activity; cavity extent; application of antimicrobial or desensitizing agents; application of liner, dentin-bonding agent and resin-based composite employed; and composite placement method.

Treatment of deep carious lesions by complete excavation or partial removal: a critical review.

Background: The classical approach to treatment of deep carious lesions approaching the pulp mandates removing all infected and affected dentin. Several studies call this approach into question.

Types Of Studies Reviewed: A search of five electronic databases using selected key words to identify studies relating to partial versus complete removal of carious lesions yielded 1,059 reports, of which the authors judged 23 to be relevant.

Attitudes and expectations of treating deep caries: a PEARL Network survey.

A survey was conducted within a practice-based dental research network to determine dentists' treatment methods for deep caries lesions and whether the dentists' intended treatment approaches were influenced by their expectations for pulpal exposure. The survey further examined how general dentistry practices have adopted scientific evidence of caries classification, excavation, and capping techniques. Dentists were queried regarding liner use, hypersensitivity considerations, point of endodontic therapy, and anticipated vitality outcomes from Class I resin-based composite restorations over three to five years.