Title : Effects of Chlorhexidine cavity disinfection on adhesive restorations
Abstract:
Chlorhexidine (CHX) is a broad spectrum antimicrobial which is used in many aspects of dentistry. The shift towards minimally invasive restorative practice has led to clinicians to preserving as much tooth structure as possible and maintaining a layer of caries affected dentine, especially in deep cavities encroaching near the pulp.
Remaining bacteria can be responsible for secondary caries, sensitivity, and ultimately failure of the restoration. Furthermore, the increasing popularity of composite resin restorations instead of amalgam, means that the science of bonding needs to be considered more carefully as these restorations do not rely primarily on macro-mechanical retention.
CHX as a cavity disinfectant has the potential to reduce bacterial load and potentially improve composite bond strength when used correctly, however if it is applied without assessing all the materials and without using the appropriate bonding protocol, it could have a negative impact on the restoration. This poster will highlight the cases where it has shown to improve bond strength, and the protocols where it can actually weaken the integrity of the restoration.
Other cavity disinfectants like lasers, sodium hypochlorite and hydrogen peroxide are lesser known alternatives to CHX, however also have their own limitations, and will be discussed in this poster.
