EFFECTIVENESS OF DIFFERENT MOISTURE CONTROL METHODS IN OPERATIVE DENTISTRY: A CLINICAL STUDY FROM PESHAWAR

Moisture management during restorative and endodontic operations is essential for clinical success. Contamination from saliva, blood, or gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) diminishes bond strength, impacts marginal integrity, and jeopardizes the longevity of restorations [1,2]. Establishing a sterile operational field is crucial for the effectiveness of adhesive dentistry, endodontics, and impression techniques. The rubber dam is internationally acknowledged as the "gold standard" for its exceptional capacity to ensure aseptic conditions [3]. In Pakistan, its utilization is constrained by variables including inadequate training, extended application duration, expense, and patient hesitance [4,5]. Cotton rolls with saliva ejectors, absorbent pads, high-volume evacuators (HVE), and gingival retraction cords containing hemostatic agents are more commonly utilized. Lip and cheek retractors are becoming more accessible in urban areas [6,7]. Although alternate methods may not consistently achieve the same degree of dryness as a rubber dam, they have practical benefits for efficiency and patient comfort. This study sought to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of locally available isolation techniques in Pakistan for moisture management, operator convenience, and patient acceptance.