PULP RESPONSE TO A COMPOSITE RESIN INSERTED IN DEEP CAVITIES WITH AND WITHOUT A SURFACE SEAL

The objective of the present investigation was to observe pulp response to a composite material (Occlusin) placed in deep cavities with and without a zinc oxide-eugenol covering. Deep cavities were prepared in 116 teeth of four young baboons and divided into four groups. In group 1, Occlusin material was placed directly into the cavity, without etching, to approximately half the depth, cured, and covered to the surface with zinc oxide-eugenol. In group 2, the cavities were etched, a bonding agent was applied, and Occlusin material was used and cured in two increments to fill the cavities up to the surface. In group 3, the composite resin was placed in two increments as in group 2, but without etching and bonding; and in group 4 (control), the cavities were filled up to the surface with zinc oxideeugenol. Follow-up times were 5, 30, and 90 days. Light microscopy revealed that, although some differences were observed, a good pulp response was evident in all groups. © 1990 The C. V. Mosby Company.