Does the use of preheated restorative resin composite as a luting agent influence the adaptation of fixed dental prostheses? A systematic review

 

Published:March 14, 2022DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.prosdent.2022.02.008

Abstract

Statement of problem

Although studies have explored the physical and mechanical properties of different composite resins with the preheating technique, evidence that the use of preheated restorative composite resin as a luting agent influences the adaptation of fixed dental prostheses is lacking.

Purpose

The purpose of this systematic review was to answer the question: Does the use of preheated restorative composite resin as a luting agent influence the adaptation of fixed dental prostheses?

Material and methods

Seven databases and nonpeer-reviewed literature were searched, without language or year restrictions. Studies directly comparing the adaptation of fixed dental prostheses cemented with preheated restorative composite resin or resin cement were considered eligible for inclusion. Assessment of the risk of bias was based on a 9-item checklist.

Results

Of 2109 retrieved articles, 4 in vitro studies met the inclusion criteria. Three of them concluded that preheated restorative composite resin produced a greater mismatch than resin cement, and the remaining study reported that composite resin improved the adaptation of fixed dental prostheses. All included studies had a medium risk of bias. The high level of heterogeneity among the studies precluded meta-analysis.

Conclusions

The use of preheated restorative composite resin as a luting agent seems to negatively influence the adaptation of fixed dental prostheses. It was not possible to evaluate whether variables such as the formulation of the resin material or its heating time and temperature influence the adaptation of fixed dental prostheses because of the high heterogeneity of the included studies.