Human pulp response to acid pretreatment of dentin and to composite restoration.

The newer composites, although free of methacrylic acid and of a neutral pH, were still found to be toxic to the pulp. The intensity of response was increased after acid pretreatment procedures; this indicates an increase in dentin permeability. When the remaining dentin thickness was 1.0 mm or less, regardless of whether the dentin was primary dentin or primary and reparative dentin, the percentage of teeth with abscess formations increased. Use of calcium hydroxide bases or liners to coat the dentin before acid pretreatment of enamel is therefore highly recommended.