by Dr Jamie Workman, PK Richardson Dental, Maroubra, NSW
When preparing a tooth—even with the wash, dry and acid etch—studies have shown that the process doesn’t kill 100 per cent of the bacteria. It is suspected that the remaining bacteria may go on to cause secondary caries and sensitivity in some restorations. Gluma (5 per cent glutaraldehyde and 35 per cent HEMA) has been shown to kill 100 per cent of the bacteria in a cavity and is a very effective desensitising agent. We use it for deep fillings, preps and for desensitising cervical lesions.
What’s good about it
Gluma comes is a liquid form that spreads evenly and easily. You just put a small amount in a dappens dish, use a micro brush to apply, then blow some air onto it and wash it off. It doesn’t affect bonding agents and can be used with any bonding filling system. It kills 100 per cent of aerobic and anaerobic organisms.
These days, there is less post-operative sensitivity, thanks to the new self-etching primers. Gluma reduces this even further, particularly in deeper cavity preparations. It has applications with pretty much everything—fillings, crowns, inlays and onlays. If a patient has dentine hypersensitivity, it can really help. Fissure sealants are another area where it can be of use by reducing failure due to secondary caries underneath the sealant.
What’s not so good
It’s pretty pricey and two one-minute applications are recommended for 100 per cent effectiveness so there’s also a time factor to consider.
Where did you get it
Gluma is made by Heraeus Kulzer and available from Gunz Dental.
