Causes of postoperative sensitivity in posterior teeth restored with composite resin

Abstract

Aesthetic standards and the search for sustainable materials, made composite resins appear as a replacement for amalgam in restoration of posterior teeth. Although these have become increasingly popular, there is concern about post-operative sensitivity. To describe the causes of postoperative sensitivity in posterior teeth restored with composite resin. This is a descriptive, exploratory research, with a qualitative approach, being a bibliographic research with an integrative literature review. Conducted through a search on PubMed and Google Scholar. A total of 9 studies were selected from the two databases, which point out that postoperative sensitivity is a topic of much debate in the area of restorative dentistry with the use of composite resin, and this can be avoided with some techniques. Postoperative sensitivity is caused by several factors, such as cavity depth, operator technique and variability, hydrodynamic fluid movement in the pulp-dentin complex, marginal microleakage due to poor sealing, polymerization contraction that leads to the formation of cracks, occlusal forces that lead to cusp deformation, in addition to improper patient habits and hygiene. In order to reduce or eliminate this sensitivity, several studies point to the use of techniques combined with composite resin, such as the use of adhesives.