Effect of Dentin Moisture in Posterior Restorations Performed with Universal Adhesive: A Randomized Clinical Trial

OBJECTIVES: This double-blind, randomized clinical trial evaluated the influence of dentin moisture on postoperative sensitivity (POS), as well as, on clinical performance in posterior bulk-fill composite restorations, using a universal adhesive, until 12 months after clinical service. METHODS AND MATERIALS: In accordance with a split-mouth design, 45 patients received posterior restorations, restored with a bulk-fill resin composite (Filtek Bulk Fill, 3M Oral Care) and a universal adhesive used in etch-and-rinse mode (SBU; Single Bond Universal Adhesive), which were applied on dry or moist dentin, with a cavity depth of at least 3 mm. Three operators placed 90 Class I/Class II restorations. Patients were evaluated for spontaneous and stimulated POS in the baseline, and after 48 hours, 7 days, and at 6 and 12 months. In addition, secondary parameters (marginal discoloration, marginal adaptation, fracture, and recurrent caries) were evaluated by World Dental Federation (FDI) criteria after 7 days and at 6 and 12 months. Statistical analyzes were performed using the Chi-square, Fisher exact, Friedman, Kruskall-Wallis, and Mann-Whitney tests (α=0.05). RESULTS: No significant spontaneous and stimulated POS was observed when SBU was applied in dry and moist dentin (p>0.05). A significant and higher risk of spontaneous POS (20.0%; 95%CI 10.9-33.82 for dry dentin and 22.22%; 95%CI 12.54-36.27 for moist dentin) occurred up to 48 hours after restoration placement for the dry and moist dentin groups (p<0.02). However, the POS intensity was mild up to 48 hours with no significant difference between dry and moist dentin groups (p>0.79). When secondary parameters were evaluated, no significant differences between the groups were observed. CONCLUSION: Dentin moisture did not influence POS in posterior bulk-fill composite restorations when associated with a universal adhesive applied in etch-and-rinse mode.