Effect of topical application and local infiltration of anesthetic agent on pain associated with wedging and matrix placement during proximal restoration

ABSTRACT Aims: To evaluate the pain perceived by the patient during the secured placement of the matrix and wedge under different anesthetic conditions using a visual analog scale. Methods and Material: Ninety patients with proximal surface lesions were included and assigned to three groups ( n = 30). Before the matrix and wedge placement, the patient received either the anesthetic or placebo agents. VAS score measures the pain the patient perceives after the matrix and wedge placement. Statistical Analysis Used: Statistical analysis was done using the SPSS package, and the results were subjected to the Kruskal–Wallis test. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups who received one of the anesthetic agents. However, a statistically significant difference was present between the two anesthetic groups and the control group, which was chlorhexidine gel. Conclusions: Topical anesthetic gel effectively reduces pain during the placement of the matrix and wedge, resulting in better matrix band adaptation and, ultimately, the restoration’s good marginal adaptation.