Acrylic resin is commonly used in many areas of dentistry. Hypersensitivity to this material can be discovered in several ways. My practice partner and I have made this discovery when providing affected patients with either a nightguard splint for bruxism or provisional fixed crowns or bridges. When patients had hypersensitivity responses to acrylic resin, we questioned them about their medical histories. We found that some of these patients were unaware of their allergy and that others were aware but did not consider that they might be exposed to acrylic resin while receiving dental care. (This indicates that it may be worthwhile to add questions about acrylic allergy to the medical history form.)
In my experience, the incidence of hypersensitivity to acrylic resin is not common. However, techniques are needed for affected patients who require interim prostheses that would best be constructed using this material.
When patients are hypersensitive to acrylic resin, it can be challenging to provide fixed provisional restorations using routine procedures and materials. After some difficulties, my partner and I came up with a technique that has worked well. This article concentrates on the fabrication of provisional fixed prostheses for crown and bridge procedures.
THE TECHNIQUE
Follow usual procedures for preparations and impressions. When making the provisional crown, first apply a liberal coat of petroleum jelly to all tissue surrounding the prepared teeth that might be contacted by acrylic provisional material
