Have you ever seen a post-op visit on your schedule shortly after completing a patient’s resin restorations—and felt completely deflated? We’ve all been there. The solution is simple: stop having patients come back after these procedures! Easy, right? Maybe it hasn’t been easy for you in the past, but with the right products and protocol, post-operative visits after resin restorations can actually be a thing of the past.
There are many factors that can affect the success of resin restorations and post operative sensitivity. We will focus on two products that, when used in conjunction, are a game changer. I have been using these products in my office for over 10 years, and our post operative visits for resin restoration sensitivity are under 1%.
The first product is a disinfectant and desensitizer combo: Microprime G (Danville). This product includes Glutaraldehyde (typically 5%), as well as HEMA. These ingredients work together to provide antimicrobial properties, strengthen the collagen framework in the dentin and seal the dentinal tubules to prevent fluid movement–all of which result in reduced sensitivity. To apply this product, clean the tooth preparation, air dry, and scrub the product on the preparation using a microbrush for 30 seconds, then air dry once more. I can tell you from experience that even applying Microprime G for 10-15 seconds will yield excellent results; however, following the manufacturer guidelines is always best. A similar product to use in this setting would be G-5. I have used this product in the past as well, and have gotten excellent, predictable results.
The second product is a Universal Prime & Bond Adhesive: Scotchbond Universal Plus. When we switched from a two-bottle Prime and Bond System to a single bottle adhesive, we were skeptical of results; however, Scotchbond Universal Plus has proven its effectiveness over the years. It is easy to use, has a great track record, and excellent bond strength. An additional benefit of Scotchbond Universal Plus is that it seals the dentinal tubules to aid in reducing post operative sensitivity. Additionally, we have seen little to no pooling of the adhesive under restorations. Similar products can interfere with appropriate caries diagnosis, leaving clinicians wondering if radiolucency around restorations is due to bonding agent or decay. This product has improved radiopacity that is similar to dentin and does not cause confusion with caries diagnosis. Lastly, our assistants have raved about the ease of the famous “flip top” design on these bottles. While that may seem like a small detail, sometimes, it’s the little things in life that bring joy, and a happy staff is always a good thing. To apply this product (after Microprime G), ensure the tooth is dry, brush the adhesive onto the tooth preparation for 20 seconds and air dry for 5 seconds. Light cure for the recommended time (5-20 seconds, depending on which curing light you are using).
Using the combination of Microprime G and Scotchbond Universal Plus correctly and consistently allows for negligible patient post-operative sensitivity. This results in improved efficiency within the procedure, as well as afterwards (no postoperative visits for sensitivity), and patient comfort is achieved during and after the procedure. Additionally, clinicians benefit from these products’ proven effectiveness, tenure, and optimized efficiency.
With any great product, there is one additional question that comes into play: how much is this going to cost me? Excellent news: these two products are extremely affordable and very much worth the cost.
It goes without saying that reducing post-operative visits naturally eases the workload on front desk staff, frees up operatories, and allows doctors and clinical team members to focus on additional procedures—ultimately boosting overall office productivity across the board. Combined with increased patient satisfaction and a reasonable investment, this is an excellent option to consider for your restorative work.
If you missed our last post about Revenue Cycle Management, and how to collect what your produce, you can read it here.
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