Comparative Evaluation of Two Different Desensitizers in Reducing Postoperative Sensitivity in Composite Restorations – A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

AbstractBackground: Postoperative sensitivity following resin composite restorations is a commonly encountered clinical concern that can significantly compromise patient comfort and overall satisfaction with treatment. This sensitivity is primarily attributed to dentinal fluid movement within exposed or inadequately sealed dentinal tubules, which stimulates pulpal nerve endings in accordance with the hydrodynamic theory. Factors such as acid etching, polymerization shrinkage, microleakage, and incomplete dentin sealing can further exacerbate this response. To address this issue, the application of dentin desensitizers prior to adhesive procedures has been widely recommended, as these agents act by occluding dentinal tubules, reducing dentin permeability, and stabilizing the smear layer. Consequently, the use of desensitizing agents before placement of resin composite restorations plays a crucial role in minimizing postoperative sensitivity, improving patient comfort, and enhancing the clinical success of adhesive restorative procedures.Aim: To comparatively evaluate the effectiveness of Restorite Desensitizer (Prime Dent) and Tokuyama Shield Force desensitizers with a control group in reducing postoperative sensitivity following composite restorations.Materials and Methods: Thirty patients indicated for Class I composite restorations were randomly allocated into three groups (n = 10). Group A served as control, Group B received Restorite Desensitizer, and Group C received Tokuyama Shield Force. Postoperative sensitivity was assessed using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) at 24 hours, 7 days, and 14 days. Data were statistically analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA followed by post-hoc Turkey test.Results: This randomized controlled study compared Prime Dent Restorite Desensitizer, Tokuyama desensitizer, and a control group for reducing postoperative sensitivity after composite restorations. At all time intervals (24 hours, 7 days, and 14 days), Tokuyama showed the lowest sensitivity scores, while the control group showed the highest. Sensitivity gradually reduced over time in all groups, but the reduction was greatest and most consistent with Tokuyama. Both desensitizers performed significantly better than the control group at all followup periods. Although both materials were similar at 24 hours, Tokuyama was significantly more effective than Prime Dent Restorite at 7 and 14 days.Conclusion: Application of desensitizers prior to composite restorations significantly reduces postoperative sensitivity. Tokuyama Shield Force demonstrated superior clinical performance.