Concerns About Using Caviton and Resin for Permanent Tooth Filling After Bleaching - Dentistry

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Concerns regarding the use of Caviton and resin as permanent filling materials after the treatment of non-vital tooth bleaching?


Hello, Doctor.
About five or six years ago, I underwent a microsurgical procedure on my front tooth to treat an apical resorption issue.
At that time, the dentist used MTA material to create an apical base and then filled it with resin.
This year, I noticed discoloration (darkening) in the tooth, and the dentist mentioned it was a drawback of the MTA material.
After discussion, the dentist determined that the apex was healthy and decided to remove some of the MTA near the pulp and perform non-vital tooth bleaching.

One and a half months later, during a follow-up visit, the dentist removed the agent and sealed the tooth.
Upon reviewing the X-ray, the MTA in the root appeared clear, and the mid-root section looked lighter in color.
The dentist explained that he used Caviton material to fill the mid-root section, and finally filled the area near the crown with resin, which appeared darker on the X-ray.

After researching online, I found that Caviton is typically used as a temporary filling material during treatment.
I am unsure of the dentist's intention in using it.
Can Caviton be used as a permanent intermediate filling material? Is its hardness sufficient to support the tooth after root canal treatment? Additionally, are there any adverse effects of leaving a temporary filling in place for an extended period?
Furthermore, is there any difficulty in using resin for filling (aside from the MTA apical material)? If not, I wonder why the dentist chose a three-step filling process (MTA-Caviton-Resin) instead of directly filling with resin.
These questions have been troubling me for a long time.
Could you please provide some answers? Thank you very much.

Haoqi Baobao, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/10/10

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry


Dear Curious Baby Miss,
Hello! The primary materials used for root canal treatment filling are gutta-percha and adhesives (such as MTA).
These materials are densely packed within 5mm of the apex, providing protective effects at the root tip.
Other substances, such as reinforcing posts or temporary materials like Cavitron, may also be placed, indicating that the treatment may not yet be complete.
Please feel free to communicate more! Take care and wishing you all the best!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Reply Date: 2019/10/10

More Info


Hello! Thank you for your detailed inquiry regarding your dental treatment and the materials used in your case. It’s understandable to have concerns about the materials and methods employed in your dental care, especially after undergoing significant procedures like root canal treatment and bleaching.

To address your questions, let's first clarify the purpose of the materials mentioned: MTA (Mineral Trioxide Aggregate), Caviton, and resin. MTA is widely recognized for its excellent sealing properties and biocompatibility, making it a preferred choice for root-end fillings and pulp capping. However, as you noted, it can sometimes lead to discoloration of the tooth, which is a common concern among patients.

Caviton, on the other hand, is typically used as a temporary filling material. Its primary role is to provide a barrier and protect the pulp while allowing for further treatment or observation. While it is not designed for long-term use, it can serve as a transitional material in specific cases. The concern with using Caviton as a permanent filling is its durability and ability to withstand the forces of mastication. It may not provide the same structural integrity as a resin composite or other permanent materials, which are designed to endure the stresses of chewing and biting.

Regarding the use of Caviton in your case, it seems your dentist opted for a three-step approach (MTA, Caviton, and then resin) to ensure that the tooth was adequately protected while also addressing the discoloration issue. The rationale could be that the dentist wanted to allow the tooth to stabilize after the bleaching process before applying a more permanent solution. This method can help in assessing the health of the tooth and ensuring that the pulp remains unaffected before committing to a permanent filling.

As for your concern about the long-term effects of using a temporary filling like Caviton, it is generally not recommended for extended use. Prolonged exposure to a temporary material can lead to issues such as leakage, bacterial contamination, and potential reinfection of the pulp. If Caviton is left in place for too long, it may not provide adequate protection, leading to complications that could necessitate further treatment.

Regarding the resin filling, it is typically a preferred choice for permanent restorations due to its aesthetic qualities and strength. If there are no complications with the underlying tooth structure, a resin filling should not pose significant difficulties. However, the choice of materials often depends on the specific clinical situation, including the condition of the tooth, the extent of the decay, and the dentist's clinical judgment.

In summary, while Caviton can serve a purpose in your treatment, it is not ideal for long-term use as a permanent filling. It’s crucial to follow up with your dentist regarding the timeline for replacing the Caviton with a more durable material like resin. If you have ongoing concerns about the treatment plan or the materials used, it’s always best to discuss these directly with your dentist. They can provide personalized insights based on your specific dental health and treatment history.

Thank you for your thoughtful questions, and I hope this information helps clarify your concerns!

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