Immediate Hypersensitivity Reaction to Composite Restorations

Abstract

Restorative materials used in dentistry are constantly exposed to salivary components like enzymes that have a high impact on the degradation of  these materials and subsequent leaching of some of their constituents which may be harmful to the oral tissues in some patients. Released triethyleneglycolmethacrylate, bisphenol A-glycidyl methacrylate (Bis-GMA), diurethanedimethacrylate (UDMA) and formaldehyde have been  detected from incompletely polymerized composite and are implicated in occurrence of various adverse reactions. We present a case of a 60 year old female who had composite restorations done. She later presented with complaints of several episodes of intermittent gingival and cheek swellings of sudden onset adjacent to the restored teeth. The filling was taken off and patient was placed on anti-allergy medications with a close follow-up. This presentation highlights the occurrence of a typical allergy to composite material in our centre. It serves to educate dental practitioners about the awareness of such adverse reactions to dental resin materials and the need to be prompt in management of the condition.