Ten tips for avoiding post-operative sensitivity with posterior composite restorations

Abstract

Patients increasingly seek tooth-coloured restorations in their posterior dentition, and with the anticipated decline in the use of amalgam as a result of the Minamata Agreement, this will increase. However, the incidence of post-operative sensitivity has been variously assessed as being between 0% and 51%, therefore information on its avoidance is essential. This article reviews the reasons for such sensitivity by examining the potential materials' factors, plus clinical aspects, such as the configuration factor and bonding to tooth substance. CPD/Clinical Relevance: There is a significant incidence of post-operative sensitivity after placement of a posterior composite restoration, so information on how to avoid this may be of value.