Posterior Composite Resin Research Articles

Randomized clinical evaluation of the effect of chlorhexidine on postoperative sensitivity of posterior composite resin restorations.

Evaluation of postoperative sensitivity in posterior teeth restored with etchand- rinse adhesive and composite resin after application of 2% chlorhexidine solution. Thirty participants with similar dental caries on both sides of the jaws were selected. After cavity preparation, each tooth was randomized to one of the following restoration methods. Teeth in the control group were restored using etch-and-rinse resin adhesive (Single Bond, 3M ESPE) and universal microhybrid composite resin (Filtek Z250, 3M ESPE). Restoration of teeth in the experimental group was similar to the control group except that 2% chlorhexidine solution (Concepsis, Ultradent) was applied on the etched dentin for 60 seconds. Subjects were recalled for evaluation of postoperative sensitivity at 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, and 6 months. Data were analyzed by Fisher exact test (α = .05). The experimental group showed significantly less postoperative sensitivity (8 teeth) compared with the control group (20 teeth) at the 1-day recall (P < .05; Fisher exact test). Conventional restorations were comparable to teeth treated with chlorhexidine at other recall times (P > .05). Chlorhexidine significantly decreased immediate postoperative sensitivity of posterior teeth restored by composite resin.

The influence of different light-curing modes on microleakage of posterior resin composites

This investigation evaluated the effect of various curing modes on the extent of microleakage of differently resin-based posterior composites. Box-form Class II (MO/OD) cavities (n = 8) were prepared on proximal sides of 36 human sound mandibular molars. The cavities were restored by posterior composites (Filtek™ P90, Filtek™ Z250, and Filtek™ P60). The composite was placed in horizontal layers and irradiated occlusally by Astralis™ 10 light source at three modes of continuous intensities (conventional, high intensity power, and pulse-soft start). The specimens were thermocycled for 500 cycles at 5–55 °C, then immersed in 2% methylene blue solution for 4-h at 37 °C. The microleakage was examined by a stereomicroscope and scored occlusally and gingivally according to the ordinal scoring criteria. The Kruskal–Wallis revealed high significant differences between microleakage medians of the posterior composites examined (p < 0.05). However, no significant differences were noted between microleakage medians at different modes of curing intensities occlusally (p = 0.076) and there were significant differences gingivally (p = 0.015). Mann–Whitney U-test showed a significant difference in microleakage for cavities restored by Z250 between high power and pulse modes of cure (p = 0.006). The highest microleakage score was identified in the cavities restored with P60, while the lowest microleakage score was found in cavities restored by P90 specifically at conventional and pulse mode of cure. The light intensity modes have no significant effect on the microleakage, while the difference in composition of posterior resin composites investigated was the main factor for such a significant difference.

A prospective 8-year follow-up of posterior resin composite restorations in permanent teeth of children and adolescents in Public Dental Health Service: reasons for replacement

The aim of the study was to investigate reasons for replacement and repair of posterior resin composite (RC) restorations placed in permanent teeth of children and adolescents attending Public Dental Health Service in Denmark. All posterior RC placed consecutively by 115 dentists over a period of 4 years were evaluated at baseline and up to 8 years later. The endpoint of each restoration was defined when repair or replacement was performed. The influence of patient, dentist and material factors on reasons for repair or replacement was investigated. A total of 4,355 restorations were placed. Replacements comprised 406 and repairs 125 restorations. The cumulative survival rate at 8 years was 84 %. Failed restorations were most frequently seen due to secondary caries (57 %), post-operative sensitivity (POS) (10 %) and RC fracture (6 %). POS was observed in 1.5 % of the evaluations and reported more often in girls and from teeth restored with a base material. Older dentists showed lower proportion of replaced restorations due to secondary caries than younger dentists. Posterior RC restorations in children and adolescents performed in general practice showed a good durability with annual failure rates of 2 %. The main reason for failure was secondary caries followed by post-operative sensitivity and resin composite fracture. A high proportion of replaced/repaired RC restorations were caused by primary caries in a non-filled surface. Secondary caries was the main reason for failure of RC in children and young adults. More teeth with post-operative sensitivity and a shorter longevity of restorations were observed when a base material was used.

Occlusal Wear of Provisional Implant-Supported Restorations

Implant-supported provisional restorations should be resistant to occlusal wear. The purpose of this laboratory study was to evaluate three-body wear of three indirect laboratory composite resins, five chair side bis-acryl resin-based materials, and two chair side methacrylate-based materials used to fabricate provisional implant-supported restorations. The materials were handled and cured according to the manufacturers' instructions. The three-body wear was measured 1 day, 3 days, 7 days, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks after curing using the ACTA wear device. Wear rate decreased significantly after 8 weeks compared with the first day for all tested materials, except for Estenia C&B. The three-body wear of two indirect laboratory composite resins, that is, Estenia C&B and Solidex, was significantly less compared with all other tested materials used for fabricating provisional implant-supported restorations. Of the chair side materials, the wear rate of Protemp Crown Paste was significantly less compared with the others materials used to fabricate chair side provisional implant-supported restorations. The methacrylate-based materials, Temdent Classic and Trim, showed extreme high wear rates. Based on the results of this laboratory study on long-term wear, the use of indirect composite resin is preferred over chair side methacrylate-based materials when the provisional implant-supported restoration has to be in service for a long period of time. Of the investigated materials, only Estenia C&B and Solidex showed wear rate comparable with posterior resin composites.

Two-year follow-up of indirect posterior composite restorations of permanent teeth with excessive material loss in pediatric patients: a clinical study.

To evaluate the clinical effectiveness of indirect composite restorations in permanent molars with excessive substance loss in pediatric patients who have undergone root canal treatments. Molars of 29 pediatric patients underwent endodontic treatment. Sixteen molars were restored with an indirect posterior composite resin restoration and 13 molars were restored with a direct posterior composite resin restoration. The success of the restorations was evaluated for 2 years based on United States Public Health Service (USPHS) criteria, photographs after staining with basic fuchsine, and radiographic data. Data obtained from both groups were compared using the Mann-Whitney U-test and Wilcoxon signed rank test. Evaluation of the clinical and radiographic data revealed no observable, statistically significant differences between the posterior and the indirect posterior composites (p > 0.05). However, evaluation of photos taken of the patients' molars after staining with basic fuchsin revealed that direct posterior composites showed increased staining on the margins of the restorations after six months (p < 0.05). Considering the difficulties of restoring endodontically treated permanent teeth with excessive substance loss in child patients, indirect restorations may be seen as a better option.

Conservative approach to restore the first molar with extensive destruction: A 30-month follow-up.

The available options for restoring multiple surface cavities are: amalgam, composite resin, or indirect restorations. Adhesive system and intradentinal pin-retained composite resin restorations should have a similar performance to pin-retained amalgam, regarding resistance to support occlusal forces. Polymerization shrinkage is a major concern when performing direct posterior composite resin restorations and the incremental insertion technique can provide less stress and outstanding margin behavior. Intradentinal pins can potentially enhance composite resin's retention, while reducing gaps caused by polymerization shrinkage. This article reports a clinical case involving an extensive restoration on a posterior tooth with cusp loss that was successfully treated using an intradentinal pin and direct nano-hybrid composite resin restoration.

Posterior composite restorations: Theoretical and practical teaching of undergraduate students in Serbia and abroad

Introduction. Due to the educational process inertia based on textbook literature, teaching of undergraduate students in dental schools is often behind modern practice. From the aspect of minimally invasive dentistry, composites are materials of choice for the reconstruction of most lesions in posterior teeth. The objective of the study was to systematize data about theoretical and practical teaching of undergraduate students regarding the application of posterior resin composites in the world?s dental schools and compare it with the data obtained from the School of Dental Medicine, University of Belgrade. Material and Methods. MEDLINE database was searched for articles based on keywords dental education and posterior composites. Only articles published in the last five years and those which used the same questionnaire were included in the study. Results. Data were analyzed for the dental schools from the UK and Ireland, Spain, Japan, United States and Canada. Increased theoretical and practical teaching of students regarding posterior composites is noted in most schools. The dominant contraindication for using resin composite is allergy to its ingredients. Rubber dam is the most common method of providing aseptic conditions and dry field in the world, whereas in our school it is used in negligible number of cases. In a number of schools, metal matrices and wooden wedges are recommended for the proximal cavity restoration. Glass-ionomer cement is commonly used as a liner. Polishing and finishing of restorations is performed in the same session in 90-100% of the schools except in Japan, where it is carried out after 24 hours. Conclusion. Theoretical and practical teaching of posterior composite restorations is increasing in the world?s dental centers. It is necessary to harmonize teaching in our school with international trends in the use of rubber dam, certain aspects of cavity design and protocols for the treatment of deep caries lesions.

Longevity of posterior resin composite restorations in permanent teeth in Public Dental Health Service: A prospective 8 years follow up

ObjectivesTo investigate in a prospective follow up the longevity of posterior resin composites (RC) placed in permanent teeth of children and adolescents attending Public Dental Health Service. MethodsAll posterior RC placed, in the PDHS clinics in the cities of Copenhagen and Frederiksberg in Denmark between November 1998 and December 2002, in permanent teeth of children and adolescents up to 18 years, were evaluated in an up to 8 years follow up. The endpoint of each restoration was defined, when repair or replacement was performed. Survival analyses were performed between subgroups with Kaplan–Meier analysis. The individual contribution of different cofactors to predict the outcome was performed with Cox regression analysis. ResultsTotally 2881 children with a mean age of 13.7 years (5–18) received 4355 RC restorations placed by 115 dentists. Eighty percent were placed in molars and 49% were Class I. Two percent of restorations with base material and 1% of the restorations without base material showed postoperative sensitivity (n.s.). Replacements were made in 406 and repairs in 125 restorations. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed a cumulative survival at 8 years of 84.3%, resulting in an annual failure rate of 2%. Lower patient age, more than one restoration per patient, placement of a base material and placement of RC: in molars, in cavities with high number of surfaces, in lower jaw teeth, showed all significant higher failure rates. Five variables had significant importance for the end point, replacement/repair of the resin composite restorations: age of patient, age of operator, jaw, tooth type and cavity size. SignificancePosterior RC restorations placed in children and adolescents in Public Dental Health clinics showed an acceptable durability with annual failure rates comparable with those of randomized controlled RC studies in adults.

A Five-Year Clinical Evaluation of Direct Nanofilled and Indirect Composite Resin Restorations in Posterior Teeth

To assess the clinical efficacy of posterior composite resin restorations placed directly and indirectly in posterior teeth after five years. A total of 108 cavities in 54 patients were restored with three direct composite resins (Filtek SupremeXT [FSXT], Tetric Evo Ceram [TEC], AELITE Aesthetic [AA]) and two indirect composite resins (Estenia [E] and Tescera ATL [TATL]). All restorations were evaluated by two examiners using the United States Public Health Service criteria at baseline and five years after placement. Statistical analysis was completed with Fisher exact and McNemar χ(2) tests. At baseline, 4% (five) of the restored teeth presented postoperative sensitivity; however, only one of them (a member of the E group) required canal treatment and replacement after two years. At the five-year evaluation, all restorations were retained, with Alpha ratings at 100%. Only one tooth (in the TEC group) required replacement after three years due to secondary caries. Color match, surface texture, and marginal integrity were predominantly scored as Alpha after five years for all groups. After that time, marginal discoloration was scored as Alpha in 64% of AE restorations, 70% of TATL restorations, 73% of E restorations, and 87% of FSXT restorations. There were no Charlie scores recorded for any of the restorative systems. Under controlled clinical conditions, indirect composite resin inlays and direct composite resin restorations exhibited an annual failure rate of 2.5% and 1.6%, respectively, after five years. Therefore, the investigated materials showed acceptable clinical performance, and no significant differences were found among them.

One-Year Clinical Evaluation of Composite Restorations in Posterior Teeth: Effect of Adhesive Systems

This clinical study assessed the performance of posterior composite resins applied with the Adper™ Single Bond Plus (SB) and Adper™ Scotchbond SE (SE) adhesive systems and Filtek™ Supreme Plus composite resin, using modified US Public Health Service criteria. A total of 97 restorations were placed in posterior teeth by two calibrated operators. Application of the materials followed manufacturers' instructions. The restorations were evaluated by two examiners at baseline and after one year. Statistical analyses were conducted using the proportion test at a significance level of 5% (p<0.05). All the restorations evaluated (ie, 100%) received an alpha rating for the criteria of marginal discoloration and marginal integrity at baseline. At one year, for marginal discoloration, 64.6% of SB and 61.2% of SE received an alpha rating. For marginal integrity, 72.9% of SB and 77.6% of SE received an alpha rating. The other restorations received bravo ratings for both criteria. None of the teeth that received the restorative systems presented caries lesions around the restorations. A total of eight teeth presented postoperative sensitivity one week after baseline, five with SB and three with SE; the symptom had disappeared one year later. One year later, composite resin restorations using either adhesive system showed satisfactory clinical performance.

Stress Analysis in Ceramic Inlays Restored Premolars

Ceramic inlays can be used on premolars requiring a MOD restoration instead posterior composite resins direct restorations and offer a durable alternative. Because it is known that MOD inlays may increase the susceptibility to fracture, it is important to ensure optimal performance in selection of the adequate preparation design to reduce stresses in teeth structures and also in the restorations. The aim of the study was to determine, using finite element analysis, the optimal shapes of ceramics MOD inlays in premolars in order to minimize the potentially damaging effects of stress on teeth structures and restorations. The study was performed on an upper first premolar, using a finite element analysis. 3D models of maxillary first premolars, prepared for MOD inlays with different tapers were generated. The mesh structure of the solid 3D model was created using the computational simulation of Ansys finite element analysis software. An occlusal load of 200 N was conducted, and stresses occurring in the ceramic inlays, and teeth structures were calculated. The study provides a biomechanical explanation for inlays restored teeth. MOD inlays transfer functional stress to the teeth structures. The taper of the preparations had no significant influence on the stress values for all the studied cases.

Trends in Material Choice for Posterior Restorations in an Israeli Dental School: Composite Resin Versus Amalgam

According to a recent American Dental Association survey, posterior composite resin restorations now outnumber amalgam restorations in the United States. Dental schools around the world vary considerably in the extent to which they teach the use of composite resins. We aimed to determine if there has been an increase in the placement of posterior composite restorations in an Israeli dental school and if faculty experience affects the type of posterior restoration placed. In this retrospective study, we recorded and analyzed all the restorations performed by undergraduate students in the last five academic years at the Hebrew University Hadassah School of Dental Medicine in Jerusalem. All clinical records of student treatments between 2004 and 2009 were screened, and direct restorations were registered. Out of 6,094 posterior restorations performed during the study period, 42.3 percent were made of composite resin, increasing from 36.8 percent in 2004-05 to 48.5 percent in 2008-09, an increase of 11.7 percent. When clinical instructors were asked to state their preference if they themselves were to undergo posterior restoration, similar results were obtained. Instructors with less than ten years' experience preferred posterior composite resin restorations in 54.8 percent of the hypothetical situations, compared with 37.2 percent preferred by instructors with ten years of experience or more. It appears that the use of composite resin was influenced mainly by the prevailing trend and was not based on scientific evidence. Dental faculties should define criteria, based on up-to-date clinical studies, for using new materials, taking into consideration differences among instructors regarding treatment concept.

In Vitro Comparison of Microleakage of Posterior Resin Composites With and Without Liner Using Two-Step Etch-and-Rinse and Self-etch Dentin Adhesive Systems

Composite restorations frequently have gingival margins apical to the cemento-enamel junction (CEJ). Microleakage at the cementodentinal margins is one of the most important causes of failure in these restorations. The current study evaluated microleakage at the occlusal and gingival margins of Class II packable composite restorations using resin-modified glass ionomer and flowable composite as liners, using the two-step etch-and-rinse and self-etch dentin-bonding systems. This in vitro study was carried out on 48 intact human premolars. Class II preparations were made with the gingival margins placed 1.0 mm apical to the CEJ. The teeth were randomly assigned to six groups of 16 boxes and restored using the following techniques: Group 1: Single Bond (3M ESPE) + Filtek P60 (3M ESPE); Group 2: Clearfil SE Bond (Kuraray) + Filtek P60; Group 3: Single Bond + Filtek Flow (3M ESPE) + Filtek P60; Group 4: Clearfil SE Bond + Filtek Flow + Filtek P60. Group 5: Single Bond + Fuji II LC (GC) + Filtek P60; Group 6: Clearfil SE Bond + Fuji II LC + Filtek P60. The restorations were thermocycled for 1000 cycles at 5{degree sign}C and 55°C, soaked in 2% methylene blue for 48 hours, then sectioned mesiodistally and viewed under a stereomicroscope for leakage at the gingival margin. The data were statistically analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis, two-way ANOVA and Mann-Whitney U-tests. The resin-modified glass-ionomer liner demonstrated significantly less leakage than flowable composite (p<0.05). There was no difference between restorations with flowable resin composite liners and those without the liner; in addition, no significant difference was observed between the two kinds of adhesive systems. The current study supports the use of resin-modified glass ionomer as a liner in closed-sandwich technique to decrease microleakage of Class II packable composite restorations, applying either the two-step etch-and-rinse or the self-etch dentin adhesive system.

Optimizing tooth form with direct posterior composite restorations

Advances in material sciences and technology have provided today's clinicians the strategies to transform the mechanistic approach of operative dentistry into a biologic philosophy. In the last three decades, composite resins have gone from being just an esthetically pleasing way of restoring Class III and Class IV cavities to become the universal material for both anterior and posterior situations as they closely mimic the natural esthetics while restoring the form of the human dentition. In order to enhance their success, clinicians have to rethink their protocol instead of applying the same restorative concepts and principles practiced with metallic restorations. Paralleling the evolution of posterior composite resin materials, cavity designs, restorative techniques and armamentarium have also developed rapidly to successfully employ composite resins in Class II situations. Most of the earlier problems with posterior composites such as poor wear resistance, polymerization shrinkage, postoperative sensitivity, predictable bonding to dentin, etc., have been overcome to a major extent. However, the clinically relevant aspect of achieving tight contacts in Class II situations has challenged clinicians the most. This paper reviews the evolution of techniques and recent developments in achieving predictable contacts with posterior composites. A Medline search was performed for articles on “direct posterior composite contacts.” The keywords used were “contacts and contours of posterior composites.” The reference list of each article was manually checked for additional articles of relevance.

Attitudes of some European dental undergraduate students to the placement of direct restorative materials in posterior teeth

The aim of this article was to report on the attitudes, opinions and confidences of final year dental students in three European schools towards the restoration of posterior teeth and in particular towards the use of amalgam and resin composite. One hundred and twenty-eight pre-piloted questionnaires were distributed to final year dental students in Cardiff, Dublin and Malmö. The questionnaire sought information relating to various opinions and attitudes towards the use of amalgam and resin composite in posterior teeth. Information was returned anonymously. Ninety-one completed questionnaires were returned (response rate=71%; Cardiff: n =40, Dublin: n=24, Malmö: n=27). Ninety-three per cent of Malmö students (n=24), 67% of Dublin students (n=16) and 60% of Cardiff students (n=24) reported that they feel confident when placing posterior resin composites. One hundred per cent of Malmö students (n=27), 75% of Cardiff students (n=30) and 33% of Dublin students (n=8) would prefer to have a resin composite rather than amalgam, placed in one of their own posterior teeth. Eighty-five per cent of Malmö students (n=23), 30% of Cardiff students (n=12) and 25% of Dublin students (n=6) perceive amalgam as being harmful to the environment. For the restoration of a posterior tooth in a pregnant female, 44% of students (n=40) would place a resin composite restoration, and 7% (n=6) would place an amalgam restoration, while 32% (n=29) would place a temporary restoration. Students at Malmö report that they place more posterior resin composites and have greater confidence at placing posterior resin composites than students at Cardiff or Dublin. There was confusion relating to the choice of restorative materials for pregnant females. Large variations in restorative strategies among graduates must be considered as dental professionals can practice in all countries within the European Union.

Clinical Evaluation of Resin-based Composites in Posterior Restorations: Two-year Results

This study evaluated the clinical performance of a nanohybrid and a low shrinkage posterior composite in Class I and II restorations after two years. A total of 82 Class I and Class II cavities were restored in 31 patients (10 male, 21 female) by one clinician using Grandio and Quixfil and the manufacturers' self-etch adhesives (Futura Bond and Xeno III) according to the manufacturers' instructions. Two previously calibrated operators clinically evaluated the restorations one week after placement (baseline) and six months, one year and two years after placement using modified USPHS criteria. Statistical analysis was completed using the Pearson Chi-square and Fisher's Exact Test (p<0.05). All patients attended the 12-month recall and no lack of retention was observed. With respect to color match, marginal adaptation, secondary caries and surface texture, no significant differences have been found between the two restorative materials that were tested after 12 months (p>0.05). None of the restorations had shown any marginal discoloration and anatomic form loss until the end of the 12-month period. Two-year recall data demonstrated an 83.87% recall rate (26 patients). Grandio restorations showed a significant deterioration of the surface properties that demonstrated 26% Bravo scores, which are still clinically acceptable. None of the restorations exhibited postoperative sensitivity at any evaluation period. It was concluded that nanofill (Grandio) and posterior composite (Quixfil) demonstrated acceptable clinical performance after two years. However, further evaluations are necessary for the long-term clinical performance of these materials.

Reinforcement Effect Of Polyethylene Fiber In Root Filled Mandibular Molar: An Invitro Comparative Evaluation Of Two Different Techniques Of Placement Priyatama Meshram,Kamra A.I, Vikas Meshram

Endodontic therapy, today, forms an integral part of everyday dental practice. The large number of teeth being treated endodontically makes it imperative for the dentists to provide satisfactory restoration for those teeth to remain intact within the dental arch as an integral functioning component. So this study was carried out to check the reinforcement of composite with polyethylene fibers placed in two different technique in root filled mandibular molar teeth with mesio-occlusodistal tooth preparation. Fifty freshly extracted molars were divided into five groups of ten teeth each. Group I: Intact teeth (positive control). Group II: Unrestored MOD prepared tooth (negative control). Group III: MOD tooth preparation restored with posterior composite resin. Group IV: Ribbond fiber was placed over the composite resin restoration and exposed fiber was covered with composite resin. Group V: Ribbond fiber was placed on the floor of the tooth preparation and the remaining prepared tooth was restored with composite resin restoration. The samples were subjected to compressive loading on Hounsfield tensometer until failure. The data were recorded and subjected to statistical analysis. Group-IV showed significantly higher fracture resistance than Group-V.

Resin composite contours

When placing posterior composite resin restorations, clinicians often struggle to achieve good contacts. Frequently contacts that are successful are only confined to the occlusal aspect of the proximal wall. A clinical technique is discussed which achieves the correct contour as well as tight contacts. The technique is also minimally invasive and highly aesthetic.

Effect of Finishing/Polishing Systems on the Surface Roughness of Novel Posterior Composites

The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate and compare the surface finish of some direct posterior resin composites with new novel ones, which are based on a resin matrix other than the ordinary dimethacrylate, after fine finishing and polishing with eight different systems. Forty-eight disk-shaped specimens of the posterior composites were prepared in a split Teflon mold and irradiated by an Astralis 10 light cure (560 mW/cm(2) for 10 seconds) at four quadrants on each sample's side. The specimens were divided into eight groups according to the designed finishing and/or polishing protocols. The surface roughness in the form of surface finish (Ra) was recorded using a contact profilometer. The surface of the specimens was observed under the scanning electron microscope. Analysis of variance revealed highly significant differences between the materials for the Ra roughness parameter at each finishing and polishing system used (p < 0.05). On the one hand, Filtek P90 (3M ESPE Dental Products, Seefeld, Germany) and Definite (Degussa, Dental Centrum, Hanau, Germany) provided the smoothest surface finish (Ra) when they were finished and polished with a series of Sof-Lex pop-on disks (3M ESPE Dental Products) and Astropol (Ivoclar Vivadent, Schaan, Liechtenstein), respectively. On the other hand, Filtek P60 (3M ESPE Dental Products) presented the roughest surface when it was finished with Fini disks (Jeneric/Pentron Clinical Technologies, Wallingford, CT, USA). Scanning electron microscope images indicated a uniform surface topography for Filtek P90 with most finishing/polishing systems. Contrary to CompoSite polishers (Shofu Inc., Kyoto, Japan), Astropol showed the smoothest surface finish with most of the investigated composites. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE The smoothest surface finish was achieved by most of the finishing/polishing systems investigated specifically on cationic (Filtek P90) and organically modified ceramics (Definite) composites compared with dimethacrylate-based composites, suggesting their successful clinical use.

A comparative histological analysis of human pulp following direct pulp capping with Propolis, mineral trioxide aggregate and Dycal

Permanent teeth pulp exposures have traditionally been treated with calcium hydroxide pulp capping. The aim of this study was to investigate the response of human pulp tissue which were mechanically exposed to a new material, Propolis and compare it with two existing and commonly used pulp capping agents (mineral trioxide aggregate and Dycal). Thirty-six intact human premolars were mechanically exposed. Teeth were divided into six groups of 6 teeth each and were capped with Propolis, mineral trioxide aggregate and Dycal. Final restoration was done with posterior composite resin using light cured glass ionomer cement as a liner. The teeth were then extracted on the 15th or the 45th day and processed for histological evaluation. Differences in inflammatory response and dentine bridge formation of the exposed pulp to the three different materials were statistically calculated using chi-square test and were found to be non-significant. There was more pulp inflammation in teeth treated with Dycal than with Propolis and MTA on the 15th as well as on the 45th day. Propolis and MTA showed bridge formation in more teeth, and the bridges were in closer proximity to pulp capping material than teeth treated with Dycal on the 45th day. The response of pulps to Propolis as a pulp capping agent was comparable to MTA and Dycal.