Indication of cavity bases and liners for pulp protection

The pulp has an important role in keeping the dental vitality, and there is no material capable of replacing dentin efficiently. However, many bases and liners used in order to protect pulp have a lot of positive features, what makes its choice a controversial subject. Objectives: This study tried to identify the most used bases and liners, among dentists. Methods: A survey, e-mailed to members of the Brazilian group of dentistry professors (GBMD), resulted in 98 answered feedback forms that were analyzed. Results: For shallow amalgam cavities – most of the professors indicated varnish (48,27%) and hybridization (41,37%). For shallow composite cavities – 87,14% use hybridization. Deep amalgam or composite cavities – calcium hydroxide is the most indicated (65,26% and 58,16% respectively). 65,3% of the professors do not make differences between cavity lining of anterior or posterior teeth. Accidental pulp exposure – 38,77% use the calcium hydroxide (powder) + calcium hydroxide cement + glass ionomer cement. 15,3% use only the calcium hydroxide (powder) + glass ionomer cement. Conclusions: Most of professionals use cavity liners or bases before restoration, independently of cavity depth or tooth position in mouth. Hybridization is the most indicated for composite restorations, while varnish and glass ionomer cement are indicated for amalgam. In cases of accidental pulp exposure, calcium hydroxide, in its powder form, was the most indicated, and the hybridization was rarely indicated.