A Prospective Clinical Study of Mineral Trioxide Aggregate for Partial Pulpotomy in Cariously Exposed Permanent Teeth

Discriminatory performance of the pulpal inflammatory biomarkers; Interleukin-8 and TNF-α in patients with symptoms indicative of reversible and irreversible pulpitis: A diagnostic accuracy study

AIM

The success of vital pulp treatment (VPT) procedures is dependent on an accurate diagnosis of the pulpal inflammatory condition. Compared with current subjective pulpal diagnostic tests, inflammatory molecular biomarkers involved in the pathogenesis of pulpitis represent potential objective indicators of the degree of pulpal inflammation. Therefore, the aim of this study was to quantify level of inflammatory biomarkers - Interleukin 8 (IL-8) and TNF-α in patients diagnosed with reversible pulpitis (RP), irreversible pulpitis (IR) and normal pulp (NP) and investigate their diagnostic accuracy in differentiating between healthy and inflamed conditions.

METHODOLOGY

This prospective, cross-sectional study enrolled 72 patients aged 14-53 years with extremely deep carious lesions after establishing a clinical diagnosis of RP (n = 42), symptomatic IR (n = 22) and NP (n = 8). 50 μL of pulpal blood sample was collected from all the patients using a micropipette after pulpal exposure. The level of IL-8 and TNF-α was assessed in pg/mL using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Mann-Whitney U test was applied to establish the association between IL-8/TNF-α level and degree of pulp inflammation. Receiver operating curve (ROC) analysis was carried out to calculate area under the curve (AUC) for RP versus IR. Cut-off values were established using Youden's index.

RESULTS

IL-8 and TNF-α levels differed significantly between RP and IR groups (p ≤ .001). The median value of IL-8 in RP and IP groups was 259.8 pg/mL [187.5-310.0] and 1357.8 pg/mL [1036.7-2177.6] respectively. The AUC-ROC curve for RP versus IR was 0.997 with 95.5% sensitivity and 99.76% specificity. The median value of TNF-α in RP and IR groups was 75.4 pg/mL [62.7-95.8] and 157.6 pg/mL [94.1-347.3]. The AUC-ROC curve for TNF-α was 0.812 with a sensitivity and specificity of 59.1% and 92.1%, respectively. IL-8 and TNF-α levels were below detection levels for all NP samples.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that pulpal blood could provide an excellent medium for establishing pulpal diagnosis under extremely deep carious lesions. The selected cytokines, IL-8 and TNF-α, demonstrated excellent discriminatory performance for reversible and irreversible pulpitis. Future studies should correlate the IL-8/TNF-α levels with VPT treatment outcomes.

Efficacy of pulpotomy for permanent teeth with carious pulp exposure: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

This meta-analysis aims to assess the success rate of pulpotomy in the treatment of permanent teeth with carious pulp exposure and to compare the efficacy of different capping materials. Randomized controlled trials were searched in PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Clinicaltrial.gov, and Cochrane Library until August 31, 2023. The pooled success rate was estimated in the overall population and in subgroups. Additional analyses comparing different capping materials using odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95%CI) were performed. The certainty of evidence was graded using the GRADE approach. A total of 25 randomized trials with an average follow-up duration ≥ 12 months were finally included. The overall success rate of pulpotomy was 86.7% (95%CI: 82.0-90.7%). The success rate was not significantly affected by root development, pulpotomy type, and follow-up duration. Teeth with irreversible pulpitis had a relatively lower success rate than teeth with normal pulp or reversible pulpitis (82.4% [95%CI: 74.6-89.0%] vs 92.0% [95%CI: 87.9-95.4%], P = 0.013). Directly compared to conventional calcium hydroxide, mineral trioxide aggregate (88.2% vs 79.1%, OR = 2.41, 95%CI: 1.28-4.51, P = 0.006) and Biodentine (97.5% vs 82.9%, OR = 6.03, 95%CI: 0.97-37.6, P = 0.054) had higher successful rates. No significant difference between MTA and other biomaterials was found. The results were graded as very low to low certainty of evidence. In conclusion, pulpotomy is an effective treatment of permanent teeth with carious pulp exposure. Mineral trioxide aggregate and Biodentine can be recommended with more favorable outcomes as capping materials.

[The use of mineral trioxide aggregate for treatment of children with complications of dental trauma]

THE AIM

Jf the study was to assess the efficacy of mineral trioxide aggregate for treatment of children with complicated permanent teeth trauma.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study comprised 29 children aged 6-13 years (mean age 8.6±1.7 years) with 36 injured constant teeth, from which 30 had immature roots, 27 (75%) teeth had necrotic pulp at baseline examination, 12 (33.3%) teeth showed radiological signs of external imflammatory root resorbtion, 2 teeth were diagnosed with of the root fracture (5.6%). MTA was used for pulp regeneration procedure in 25 (69.5%) teeth, external closure of resorbtion site in 3 (8.3%) teeth, root canal filling in 4 (11.1%) teeth, apical plug creation in 4 teeth (11.1%). The patients were folowed up for 1 to 9 years.

RESULTS

From 36 teeth only one was extracted 9 years after regenerative endodontic procedure because of cervical root fracture. In 2 teeth with external imflammatory resorbtion progession of replacement resorption took place, in 1 tooth necrosis of regenerated pulp tissue occurred 2 years after the procedure because of restoration marginal seal failure. In 25 teeth favorable outcome was registered with stabilisation of external root resorbtion, continous root growth in 24 teeth and radioluscent lesions healing in 6 teeht showing them at baseline examination. Change of external imflammator root resorbtion to replacement resorption was detected in 1 teeth from 3 with external closure of resorbtion site. Root calan filling with MTA was performed in 3 avulsed teeth with replantation delayed for more than 1 day and in 1 tooth with root fracture. All teeth were clinically asymptomatic during more than 5 years follow-up. Favorable outcome was received in all cases of apicl plug formation.

CONCLUSION

MTA is highly effective for preservation of constant teeth in children with clinically complicated situations. In many cases with hopeless long-term prognosis for a teeth MTA allows stabilization of dental tissue level with the teeth being an object for guided tissue regeneration.

Treatment outcome of partial pulpotomy using two different calcium silicate materials in mature permanent teeth with symptoms of irreversible pulpitis: A randomized clinical trial

AIM

To assess the clinical and radiographic outcome of partial pulpotomy by comparing MTA Angelus and Total Fill BC, as pulpotomy agents, in mature teeth with deep caries and symptoms indicative of irreversible pulpitis.

METHODOLOGY

The study was designed as a parallel-two arm, double-blind, randomized superiority clinical trial registered at www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov (NCT04870398). Symptomatic mature permanent teeth with deep caries fulfilling the inclusion criteria were randomly treated using either MTA Angelus or Total Fill BC. A partial pulpotomy was performed and following complete haemostasis, the capping material was placed over the remaining pulp tissue and a postoperative periapical radiograph was taken. Clinical and radiographic follow-up evaluation was performed for a median time of 2 years, whereas levels of pain intensity were evaluated preoperatively and for 7 days after intervention using Visual Analogue Scale. For the primary outcome (failure/success of treatment), the Kaplan-Meier survival curves for the capping materials were plotted and a log-rank test for equality of survivor functions was applied. A multivariable random effects Cox Regression model was also applied. For the secondary outcome (postoperatively reported pain), a multivariable mixed effects ordinal logistic regression was structured.

RESULTS

One hundred and thirty-seven teeth in 123 patients underwent partial pulpotomy using randomly either MTA Angelus (N = 74) or Total Fill BC (n = 63). The percentage failure for MTA Angelus and Total Fill BC was 10.8% (8/74) and 17.5% (11/63), respectively, but the difference was not statistically significant [adjusted HR: 1.83; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.68, 4.91; p = .23]. Weak evidence was found that secondary caries involvement may impose a 3.54 times greater hazard for treatment failure (adjusted HR: 3.54; 95% CI: 1.00, 12.51; p = .05). For each passing minute of procedural bleeding control, there was also a 57% higher hazard for treatment failure (adjusted HR: 1.57; 95% CI: 0.99, 2.48; p = .05). The odds for higher postoperative pain were 4.73 times greater for the Total Fill BC compared to MTA Angelus (adjusted OR: 4.73; 95% CI: 2.31, 9.66; p < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Both materials exhibited similar and favourable outcome rates after partial pulpotomy in teeth with deep caries and symptoms of irreversible pulpitis. Total Fill BC was associated with a higher level of postoperative pain intensities.

Comparative evaluation of treatment outcome of partial pulpotomy using different agents in permanent teeth-a randomized controlled trial

AIM

To compare and evaluate the clinical and radiographic performance, post-operative pain, and anti-inflammatory intake after partial pulpotomy (PP) with calcium hydroxide (CH), mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), Biodentine (BD), and Emdogain (EMD) as pulp capping agents in mature permanent molars with definitive diagnosis of reversible pulpitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

As part of this prospective, randomized clinical trial with four parallel arms (CTRI Registration No.: CTRI/2020/11/029329 dated 24/11/2020), hundred and ten permanent molars with a clinical diagnosis of reversible pulpitis and normal apical tissues, from patients between the ages of 15 and 45 years, were recruited and randomly assigned to four groups-CH, MTA, BD, and EMD. Operative procedure was performed under local anesthesia and dental dam isolation. After carious pulpal exposure, 2 mm of superficially inflamed coronal pulp tissue was amputated and either of the four pulp capping materials was placed. The outcome assessment was carried out at 1, 3, 6, and 12 month(s) and was categorized as success (asymptomatic patients with PAI score = 1) or failure (symptomatic patients or PAI score > 1).

RESULTS

There was a significant difference in post-operative pain and anti-inflammatory medication intake after partial pulpotomy with Emdogain vis-à-vis other three capping agents. No difference in both clinical and radiographic performances was observed among the four capping agents.

CONCLUSION

Partial pulpotomy when performed following evidence-based guidelines results in high success rates regardless of capping agent employed. EMD can be considered a valid and suitable pulp capping agent in PP.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Meticulous examination and removal of superficially inflamed pulp under magnification and complete asepsis lead to successful pulpal healing regardless of capping agent employed.

Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes of Mineral Trioxide Aggregate Pulpotomies in Vital Permanent Teeth with Carious Pulp Exposure: A Pioneering Retrospective Study

Purpose

Vital partial pulpotomy (PP) or cervical pulpotomy (CP) in carious pulp-exposed permanent teeth preserves tooth vitality, promotes pulp healing, decreases treatment costs, and shortens treatment duration, which is a significant factor in treating noncooperative children. The aim of this retrospective study was to compare clinical and radiographic outcomes of partial and CP in vital carious-exposed permanent teeth.

Materials and methods

All vital permanent teeth with carious pulp exposure, treated by pulpotomy using mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) during 2017-2019, by two operators in one dental center, were included in the study. Around 118 permanent teeth in 97 children and adolescents (mean age 10.9 years) were evaluated 6-57 months postoperatively.

Results

The total success rates of CP and PP were 82.5 and 80.8%, respectively (p = nonsignificant). The only factor that significantly affected the success rate was the presence of preoperative periapical pathology. Teeth without such pathology showed an 87.3% success rate compared to 74.1 and 58.3% in teeth with preoperative enlarged periodontal ligament (PDL) or with periapical radiolucency, respectively (p = 0.0301). Demographic variables, maturation state of the tooth, type of tooth (incisor, premolar, molar), postoperative variables, such as the presence of radiographic dentinal bridge, partial or full obliteration of the pulp during the follow-up period, and the integrity of the final restoration during the recall examinations did not affect the success rate of the treatment.

Conclusion

Partial and CP in vital permanent teeth with carious pulp exposure in children and adolescents might be a reliable alternative to full root canal treatment (RCT).

How to cite this article

Yoshpe M, Kaufman AY, Lin S, et al. Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes of Mineral Trioxide Aggregate Pulpotomies in Vital Permanent Teeth with Carious Pulp Exposure: A Pioneering Retrospective Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(4):555-559.

Factors that influence the outcome of pulpotomy in permanent teeth

The promotion of minimally invasive treatments focussed on the maintenance of pulp vitality has become a priority area in Endodontics. These vital pulp treatments (VPT) include partial and full pulpotomy, during which diseased coronal pulp tissue is removed prior to placement of a capping biomaterial and restoration. Traditionally, pulpotomies were confined to the treatment of carious primary and traumatized permanent teeth. However, these treatments have now been proposed as definitive solutions for cariously exposed permanent teeth with mild symptoms or even symptoms indicative of irreversible disease. Until recently, it was recommended that carious exposure of mature permanent teeth be managed by root canal treatment. The promotion of pulpotomy as an alternative treatment has opened up a wave of laboratory and clinical research aimed at improving therapies or evaluating clinical outcomes. In modern evidence-based endodontics, it is imperative that the outcomes of both partial and full pulpotomy are considered and important prognostic factors identified, so that improvements can be made to aid clinical decision-making and to direct new research. In this narrative review, the outcomes of partial and full pulpotomy are discussed, before analysis of patient, intraoperative and postoperative factors that influence the outcome of the pulpotomy procedure. The review highlights that although partial and full pulpotomy for the treatment of even pulpal disease are highly successful procedures, this is based on low-quality evidence with a lack of prospective, comparative trials investigating potential prognostic factors. Based on current evidence, it appears that age, gender, tooth type, root development and intraoperative pulpal haemorrhage do not impact significantly on pulpotomy outcome, whilst others such as caries depth, inflammatory status of the pulp, capping material, level of inflammatory pulpal-biomarkers and the final restoration integrity do. Other factors, including the influence of exposure type, periodontal condition, pulpal lavage, magnification, operator experience, isolation of the operating field and type of pulpotomy, require further experimental investigation before definitive conclusions can be made relating to the success of the pulpotomy procedure. Finally, there is not only a need for future well-designed prospective research addressing these issues but also a widening of our understanding of outcome to include patient-reported as well as clinician-reported outcomes.

Partial Pulpotomy as an Applicable Treatment Option for Cariously Exposed Posterior Permanent Teeth: A Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials

The major focus of this systematic review is to assess how effective partial pulpotomy is in managing carious vital pulp exposures in permanent posterior teeth. An electronic search for studies published between January 2011 and December 2021 was conducted using the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) criteria were followed during the search process. We selected human randomized clinical trials (RCTs) that investigated the success rate of partial pulpotomy for the treatment of cariously exposed vital permanent posterior teeth and the success rate of decayed exposed vital human permanent posterior dentition managed with a partial pulpotomy. Exclusively, randomized clinical trial papers were considered for assessment. The Cochrane Collaboration’s tool was applied to assess the risk of bias. Four papers were selected for the final analysis from the 321 identified during the initial search. Our results showed that after six, 12, and 24 months of follow-up, the success rate was 94%, 93%, and 90%, respectively. The preoperative pulp state was the only significant predictive factor. Teeth with the presumptive diagnosis of irreversible pulpitis had the worse outcome. The treatment outcome was not influenced by the final restoration, pulp capping agent, apex closure, or patient age. Finally, the available data indicated that partial pulpotomy showed a high success rate in treating cariously exposed permanent posterior teeth for up to 24 months. When assessing the effectiveness of a partial pulpotomy, six months of maintenance is deemed adequate. To enhance treatment success, additional clinical and radiological measures are needed.

Outcome of vital pulp therapy in deeply carious molars affected with molar incisor hypomineralisation (MIH) defects: a randomized clinical trial

PURPOSE

To evaluate clinical and radiographic outcomes of vital pulp therapy (VPT) in deeply carious young permanent first molars (PFM) affected with MIH over 24 months.

METHODS

In this prospective randomized clinical trial, n = 50 children with deeply carious young PFM affected with MIH, and diagnosed with reversible or irreversible pulpitis were randomized into 2 groups: indirect pulp treatment (IPT) and pulpotomy (partial or complete). Teeth were followed up clinically and radiographically for 24 months. Statistical analysis was done using Chi-square test; P ≤ 0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

A total of  n = 50 teeth/patients (n = 26 females (52%), n = 24 males (48%)) were included, and 14 upper and 36 lower PFM were treated. Mean age was 11 ± 3.2 years. Clinical and radiographic success rates were: 96% for IPT, 90% for PP and 82% for CP (and 86% for both types of pulpotomy combined) over 24 months. There were no significant differences in outcomes between treatment groups. Age, gender and tooth location/jaw were found to have no statistically significant difference in outcomes among treatment groups, nor did pulpal status or root maturity, regardless of type of VPT and follow up period.

CONCLUSIONS

VPT is a valid treatment option in deeply carious young permanent first molars affected with MIH over 24 months. IPT had a higher clinical and radiographic success rate (96%) than partial or cervical pulpotomy (total 86%), but the difference was not statistically significant. Future randomized clinical trials on VPT for teeth affected with MIH are recommended with larger sample size and longer follow-up.

The outcome of partial pulpotomy in traumatized permanent anterior teeth - A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Partial pulpotomy is a procedural intervention that can maintain the vitality of pulp during the management of traumatized permanent teeth with pulpal involvement.

AIM

To evaluate whether partial pulpotomy can be considered a reliable conservative treatment option for treating traumatized permanent anterior teeth with pulpal involvement.

METHODOLOGY

A computerized systematic search was performed in PubMed, Science Direct, Cochrane, and LILACS databases from 1980 to May 2021. Five studies were included in the final analysis. Quality assessment, Meta-analysis, and Publication bias of the studies were evaluated. This systematic review was registered in PROSPERO (ID - CRD42021262031).

RESULT

The comprehensive Meta-Analysis Software was used. The test of the heterogeneity was analysed using Cochran's Q statistics. The Q value was 7.186 (df = 6) with a P value of 0.3 and I² as 16.5%. The studies were considered homogenous, and the fixed-effect model showed an overall point estimate of 0.89 with a 95% confidence interval (0.86-0.91). The Begg and Egger funnel plot indicated that there was no publication bias in the included studies.

CONCLUSION

Evidence indicates that partial pulpotomy may be considered a reliable definitive treatment option in asymptomatic traumatized permanent anterior teeth with exposed pulp rather than total pulpotomy.

Vital pulp therapy following pulpotomy in immature first permanent molars with deep caries using novel fast-setting calcium silicate cement: A retrospective clinical study

OBJECTIVES

To compare the success rate of vital pulp therapy following complete pulpotomy in immature first permanent molars, during caries treatment, using novel fast-setting calcium silicate cement (Novel CSC) versus MTA.

METHODS

Six- to eight- years old children, who received pulpotomy of first immature permanent molar using one layer novel CSC (Protooth) or two layers slow-setting MTA (MTA Angelus) covered with glass ionomer were recalled for radiographic and clinical evaluation after two years. The effects of cement type, age, gender, jaw, anesthesia type, and restoration type were assessed on the clinical success of pulpotomy and continued root formation (apexogenesis) as the treatment outcome.

RESULTS

Out of 366 included teeth in the study, 316 teeth were available for statistical analysis. The mean observation time was 28.2 ± 2.7 months. Novel CSC showed significantly higher clinical success rate (93.1%) compared to MTA (84.5%). Restored teeth with stainless steel crowns after pulpotomy and treatments performed under general anesthesia had a statistically significant effect on treatment outcome in contrast to age, gender, and jaw type.

CONCLUSION

The observations of this retrospective study suggested that the success rate of vital pulp therapy following complete pulpotomy using one layer fast-setting novel CSC was significantly higher than slow-setting MTA covered with glass ionomer. Treatment under general anesthesia and restoration using stainless steel crowns influenced the treatment outcome.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Novel fast-setting calcium silicate cement is a promising new biomaterial for vital pulp therapy in immature permanent molars that allows complete root formation overtime with apexogenesis. Clinicians must also be aware of the importance of immediate definitive restoration and proper sealing and isolation in vital pulp therapy.

Clinical and Radiographic Assessments of Potassium Nitrate in Polycarboxylate Versus Mineral Trioxide Aggregate as Pulpotomy Biomaterials in Immature Mandibular First Permanent Molars: A Randomized Clinical Trial

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study was to compare clinically and radiographically the effects of potassium nitrate in polycarboxylate cement and mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) as pulpotomy agents in vital immature mandibular first molars.

METHODS

The trial design was a parallel randomized, 1:1 allocation ratio, with both the participants and the data assessor blinded. A total of 50 molars of 48 eligible children aged 6-9 years were studied. The children had mandibular immature first molars with extensive caries that revealed pulp exposure during caries excavation. Patients were randomly allocated equally into 2 groups in which potassium nitrate in polycarboxylate cement (the intervention group) and MTA (the control group) were used as pulpotomy biomaterials. The treated teeth were restored permanently. The primary outcome was clinical/radiographic assessment after 1 week, 6 months, and 12 months. The secondary outcomes were radiometric analysis at 6 and 12 months to determine dimensional changes during maturogenesis. The digital radiographs were imported to image processing software to perform radiometric measurements. Data were tabulated and statistically analyzed with significance set at P ≤ .05.

RESULTS

Only a single tooth failed at the 6-month recall, and another one was lost during recall in each group. Thus, the overall success rate for cases/group who finally attended the 12-month follow-up time point was 92% (23/25) with no statistically significant difference between the 2 groups. At the 12-month recall, successful cases showed root development with an increase in root length and a decrease in apical foramen width. Complete apical closure was observed in 65.2% of the roots in the intervention group and 52.1% in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

The clinical and radiographic success reported in the present study reveals that potassium nitrate in polycarboxylate cement could be used as a biological and economic alternative to MTA as a pulpotomy agent in vital immature mandibular first molars. Further follow-up for longer periods is recommended.

Minimal intervention treatment of crown-root fracture in a mature permanent tooth by MTA pulpotomy and Fragment Reattachment: A Case Report

Treatment of crown-root fracture can be complicated, time-consuming and expensive. This paper presents a treatment approach that minimises intra-operatory intervention and preserves the biologic tissue. A 15-year-old boy reported for treatment of an oblique crown fracture in the left permanent maxillary central incisor (#21, Fédération Dentaire Internationale) with mature root apices. The treatment presented an endodontic, periodontal and restorative challenge as the crown fracture exposed the pulp and extended subgingivally. The patient also had accompanying generalised enamel hypoplasia due to dental fluorosis (grade 3 Deans Fluorosis index), making the aesthetic rehabilitation difficult. The case was managed by preserving the vital pulp by MTA pulpotomy, followed by the adhesive bonding of autogenous crown fragment. A three-year follow-up revealed healthy vital pulp tissue and retained bonded fragment with acceptable aesthetics and periodontal health.

Alterations of mitochondrial dynamics, inflammation and mineralization potential of lipopolysaccharide-induced human dental pulp cells after exposure to N-acetyl cysteine, Biodentine or ProRoot MTA

AIM

To investigate the effects of N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), Biodentine, ProRoot MTA and their combinations, on cell viability, mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) production, mineralization and on the expression of genes related to inflammatory cytokine production, mitochondrial dynamics and cell apoptosis of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced human dental pulp cells (hDPCs).

METHODOLOGY

Isolated hDPCs were exposed to 20 μg mL^-1 of Escherichia coli (E. coli) LPS for 24 h, before the experiment, except for the control group. Eight experimental groups were assigned: (i) control (hDPCs cultured in regular medium), (ii) +LPS (hDPCs cultured in LPS medium throughout the experiment), (iii) -LPS/Media, (iv) -LPS/BD, (v) -LPS/MTA, (vi) -LPS/NAC, (vii) -LPS/BD + NAC and (viii) -LPS/MTA + NAC. Cell viability was measured using Alamar blue assay at 24 and 48 h. Production of mtROS was evaluated at 6 and 24 h by MitoSOX Red and MitoTracker Green. The expressions of IL-6, TNF-α, Bcl-2, Bax, Mfn-2 and Drp-1 genes were investigated at 6 h using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). For differentiation potential, cells were cultured in the osteogenic differentiation media and stained using Alizarin red assay at 14 and 21 days. The Kruskal-Wallis test, Mann-Whitney U test and one-way anova were performed for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

NAC was associated with significantly greater LPS-induced hDPC viability (P < 0.05). Both Biodentine and MTA extracts promoted cell survival, whereas the combination of NAC to these material extracts significantly increased the number of viable cells at 24 h (P < 0.05). Biodentine, MTA or NAC did not alter the mtROS level (P > 0.05). NAC supplementation to the MTA extract significantly reduced the level of IL-6 and TNF-α expression (P < 0.05). Regarding mitochondrial dynamics, the use of NAC alone promoted significant Mfn-2/Drp-1 expression (P < 0.05). Most of the groups exhibited a level of Bcl-2/Bax gene expression similar to that of the control group. The increases in mineralization productions were observed in most of the groups, except the LPS group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The antioxidant effect of NAC was not evident under the LPS-induced condition in DPC in vitro. NAC combined either with Biodentine or MTA improved LPS-induced hDPCs survival at 24 h. The combination of NAC with MTA promoted mineralization.

The Role of Hydraulic Silicate Cements on Long-Term Properties and Biocompatibility of Partial Pulpotomy in Permanent Teeth

The use of hydraulic silicate cements (HSCs) for vital pulp therapy has been found to release calcium and hydroxyl ions promoting pulp tissue healing and mineralized tissue formation. The present study investigated whether HSCs such as mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) affect their biological and antimicrobial properties when used as long-term pulp protection materials. The effect of variables on treatment outcomes of three HSCs (ProRoot MTA, OrthoMTA, and RetroMTA) was evaluated clinically and radiographically over a 48–78 month follow-up period. Survival analysis was performed using Kaplan–Meier survival curves. Fisher’s exact test and Cox regression analysis were used to determine hazard ratios of clinical variables. The overall success rate of MTA partial pulpotomy was 89.3%; Cumulative success rates of the three HSCs were not statistically different when analyzed by Cox proportional hazard regression analysis. None of the investigated clinical variables affected success rates significantly. These HSCs showed favorable biocompatibility and antimicrobial properties in partial pulpotomy of permanent teeth in long-term follow-up, with no statistical differences between clinical factors.

A macroscopic and histological analysis of radiographically well-defined deep and extremely deep carious lesions: carious lesion characteristics as indicators of the level of bacterial penetration and pulp response

AIM

To investigate the relationship between radiographically and macroscopically well-defined carious lesions and the dentine-pulp complex with regard to: (i) level of bacterial penetration; (ii) inflammatory status including the presence of hyperplastic pulp stroma; and (iii) formation of hard and/or ectopic connective tissue.

METHODOLOGY

The material comprised 68 untreated cavitated permanent teeth divided into well-defined radiographic categories based on the lesion penetration depth: (i) deep lesions ( ≥3/4 of the dentine thickness with a radio-dense zone separating the lesion from the pulp) and (ii) extremely deep lesions (the carious lesion penetrated the entire thickness of the dentine, without a radio-dense zone). After extraction, the teeth were processed for histology. The material was scored with regard to coronal breakdown, macroscopic variables describing caries activity and histological variables describing the dentine-pulp complex (bacteria, inflammatory infiltrate, partial pulp necrosis, hyperplastic changes and hard tissue/ectopic presence of connective tissue). Interrater agreement was assessed using Cohen's kappa. Associations between variables were assessed using Pearson's chi-squared or Fisher's exact test. The effect size was reported by odds ratio (OR) and associated 95% confidence interval (CI). Level of significance was set to 5%.

RESULTS

There were significant associations between a closed environment (1-2 surfaces involved) and the presence of biofilm, retrograde demineralization and light-coloured demineralized dentine. Whereas radiographically defined deep lesions tended to have bacteria only in the primary dentine (P < 0.001, OR = 20.55, 95% CI [4.44, 107.89]), extremely deep carious lesions tended to have bacteria in contact with the pulpal tissue (P = 0.007, OR = 6.84, 95% CI [2.00, 62.83]), presence of an inflammatory infiltrate (Fisher's exact; P < 0.001) and partial pulp necrosis. Hyperplastic pulps were seen only in extremely deep lesions.

CONCLUSIONS

Unlike deep lesions, extremely deep carious lesions were often associated with severe pulp inflammation and infection. A radiographic threshold between deep and extremely deep lesions is suggested as indicator of the bacterial penetration level and the severity of the pulpal response prior to intervention.

Efficacy of different calcium silicate materials as pulp-capping agents: Randomized clinical trial

Background/purpose

Calcium hydroxide-based materials were the gold standard in vital pulp therapies for decades' despite of several shortcomings. However, calcium silicates have been discussed as an alternative to overcome these drawbacks. It was aimed to investigate the in-vivo effectiveness of different calcium silicates based materials in pulp capping in this study.

Materials and methods

A parallel-design, randomized controlled trial with 213 patients who has deep dentin caries, vital pulps and without spontaneous pain or history of swelling was designed. 525 M teeth were randomized, blinded and allocated to one of the five groups for pulp capping treatment (n = 105). All teeth were followed up clinically and radiographically (after 1st, 6th, 12th and 36th months) by blinded investigators. The clinical and radiographic success, and the effect of the pulp exposure to the success rate analyzed with Wald chi-square and Z tests.

Results

Clinical and radiographic success of MTA+ (86.3%, 85.4%) and Biodentine (79.4%, 80.1%) were found the highest. Although results of Theracal LC group (72.1%, 73.6%) were better than Dycal group (69.4%, 70.2%), the difference was nonsignificant (p > 0.05). Only in light-cured groups, (TheraCal LC & LC Calcihyd) pulpal exposure size effected the success of the materials (p < 0.05). MTA+ and Biodentine resulted better scores, when compared with TheraCal LC in large pulpal exposures (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

After 36-month follow-up, both MTA+ and Biodentine were found to be the appropriate material for direct pulp capping in permanent teeth. The filler ingredient of the Theracal-LC eases the usage of calcium silicates but decreases the success rate.

Combined Regenerative and Vital Pulp Therapies in an Immature Mandibular Molar: A Case Report

INTRODUCTION

This report describes the treatment of an immature mandibular molar by combining vital pulp therapy (VPT) and regenerative endodontic procedures (REPs). It details the use of REP to regain functionality and continued root development of an immature root with pulp necrosis and VPT for an immature root containing vital pulpal tissues.

METHODS

An 8-year old male presented for evaluation of a mandibular first right molar with mild buccal swelling and a nontraceable sinus tract. He recently had received a restoration. After intraoral and radiographic examination, a diagnosis of pulp necrosis and chronic apical abscess was made. After access, pulp necrosis was confirmed in the distal root; however, vital pulp tissues were present in the mesial canals. It was decided on pulpotomy (VPT) in the mesial and REP in the distal root. At the initial visit, pulpotomy was completed in the mesial root, and REP was initiated in the distal root. Three weeks later, the patient was asymptomatic and the sinus tract absent. REP was completed in the distal root, and the tooth was restored.

RESULTS

At the 6-, 12-, and 18-month follow-up, the patient presented without symptoms, and the tooth responded positively to pulp sensibility tests. Radiographic examinations showed resolution of the apical radiolucency and completed root development.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined treatment using both VPT and REP for immature molars with different pulpal status in individual roots may be a preferable treatment option because preservation of vital pulp tissues and regeneration of new vital tissues allow for continued root development and functionality.

Acemannan Used as an Implantable Biomaterial for Vital Pulp Therapy of Immature Permanent Teeth Induced Continued Root Formation

Direct pulp-capping, a vital pulp therapy, is used to protect and preserve pulp vitality by applying a biomaterial on the pulp exposure site. Acemannan, a polysaccharide extracted from Aloe vera, induces osteodentin-bridge formation to cover the exposure site in vivo. We evaluated the effect of acemannan sponges on partial pulpotomized permanent teeth with caries or accident-induced pulp exposure (n = 50). After removing infected dentin and inflamed pulp tissue, the teeth were randomly divided into acemannan or control (mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) groups (n = 25). The teeth were examined immediately after treatment (baseline) and at 6- and 12-month follow-ups for clinical and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) examination. The three-dimensional tooth length and root apex area were simulated to determine treatment success. We found that the overall success rate in the acemannan and MTA groups from baseline to 12-month follow-up was 90.91% and 95.65%, respectively, with no significant difference between the two groups (p > 0.05). In the success teeth in both groups, the root length increased, and the apex area significantly decreased (p < 0.05), indicating continued root formation. Our results suggest that acemannan is a promising low-cost biomaterial for partial pulpotomy treatment for immature permanent teeth requiring vital pulp therapy.

Success of endodontic management of compromised first permanent molars in children: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Endodontic therapies may be required in the management of compromised first permanent molar teeth; their success in children, however, is unknown.

AIM

To determine the success of endodontic therapies used on first permanent molar teeth in children aged sixteen and under.

DESIGN

MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane library, CENTRAL, Clinicaltrials.gov, and the ISRCTN registry as well as relevant paediatric, endodontic, and traumatology journal were searched using a detailed search strategy. References of included studies were hand-searched. A PICOS question was formulated: (P): children aged sixteen and under; (I): endodontic therapies (not pulp capping) on a first permanent molar tooth; (C): no treatment; (O): clinical success of endodontic therapy; and (S): all study types included. Bias was assessed using the Cochrane and Robins-I risk tools. Quality of evidence was assessed using the GRADE approach. Significant heterogeneity precluded meta-analysis.

RESULTS

4172 studies were retrieved and eleven were included in the narrative review. Partial and coronal pulpotomies have high success rates in the short term and long term. Limited evidence is available for conventional pulpectomy or regenerative techniques.

CONCLUSIONS

Partial and coronal pulpotomies are successful endodontic therapies for use in a compromised child's first permanent molar.

Evaluation of the Efficacy of Erbium, Chromium-doped Yttrium, Scandium, Gallium, and Garnet Laser in Partial Pulpotomy in Permanent Immature Molars: A Randomized Controlled Trial

INTRODUCTION

The use of the erbium, chromium-doped yttrium, scandium, gallium, and garnet (Er,Cr:YSGG) laser in vital pulp therapy contributes to the formation of dentin bridges and a sterile zone as well as the maintenance of the vitality of the pulp. However, no prior studies have used the Er,Cr:YSGG laser in partial pulpotomy of immature permanent teeth. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of partial pulpotomy treatment using mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) alone and MTA with the Er,Cr:YSGG laser in permanent immature molars.

METHODS

A total of 90 caries-exposed permanent immature molar teeth were included and randomly divided into 2 groups: the MTA group (n = 45) and the laser + MTA group (n = 45). In the MTA group, MTA was applied to the exposed area on the pulp after bleeding control. In the same session, the tooth was restored with a composite resin. In the laser + MTA group, before MTA condensation, the Er,Cr:YSGG laser was applied to the exposure area. Patients were recalled at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after treatment. The Mann-Whitney U and chi-Square tests were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

The success rate (95.5%) of the laser + MTA group was similar to that of the MTA group (88.8%). There was no significant difference between groups in terms of the frequency of at least 1 pathologic clinical or radiographic failure at 12 months (P > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Partial pulpotomy treatment showed a high success rate in immature permanent molars; however, the use of the laser did not contribute to the success rate compared with MTA alone.

Combined effects of calcium hydroxide and photobiomodulation therapy on apexogenesis of immature permanent teeth in dogs

Treatment of high-risk traumatic immature teeth due to incomplete root development is challenging. Apexogenesis is currently the ideal treatment option that allows normal root development. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the apexogenesis process of immature permanent teeth of dogs when co-administered with calcium hydroxide and photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT). A total of 36 immature permanent anterior and premolar teeth were selected from three 4-6-month-old dogs of Iranian mixed generation. The teeth were categorized into two groups, calcium hydroxide with laser irradiation (CHL) and calcium hydroxide without laser irradiation (CH). All the selected teeth received calcium hydroxide pulpotomy. After restoring teeth with amalgam, the CHL group received gallium‑aluminum-arsenide (GaAlAs) diode laser (810 nm, 4.2 J/cm², 0.3 W, 9 s,CW) on apical one-third of both buccal and lingual roots. The irradiation was repeated every 48 h for fourteen days. Intravenous tetracycline was used to observe newly formed dentin in the first, third, seventh, and fourteenth days. The distance between tetracycline lines (DTL) was examined by Fluorescence microscopy. Generalized estimating equations (GEE) were used for data analysis. In all assessments, the mean DTL were greater in the CHL group. However, the two groups had no significant differences in the amount of deposited dentin between the first and third, third and seventh, and first and seventh lines. Meanwhile, there was a significant difference between the two groups in terms of the distances between lines 7 and 14, 1 and 14 and also 3 to 14 (P < .001). In other words, from the 7th day onwards, there was a significant difference between the two groups. Within the limitation of this study, the combination therapy of PBMT and pulpotomy with calcium hydroxide accelerated apexogenesis in immature permanent dogs' teeth.

Long-term Pulpal and Restorative Outcomes of Pulpotomy in Mature Permanent Teeth

INTRODUCTION

Pulpotomy in mature permanent cariously exposed teeth preserves the remaining pulp tissues, but long-term outcomes of the pulp and the restoration are unknown. This prospective study examined the immediate and long-term status of the pulp and the restored tooth and identified potential predictors of early and late failures in teeth that were asymptomatic or experiencing only mild symptoms at the time of treatment.

METHODS

Pulpotomy was performed using the aseptic technique and a tricalcium silicate cement under local anesthesia. Teeth were assessed for up to 5 years for pulpal and apical signs and symptoms, restorative marginal integrity, and periodontal health.

RESULTS

Fifty-two patients (61 teeth) with a median age of 40 years (range, 21-75 years) were included in this study; 17 (32.7%) men and 35 (67.3%) women were treated and reviewed. Overall pulp survival was 90.2% (95% confidence interval, 79.8%-96.3%); 6 teeth developed irreversible pulpitis or pulp necrosis when the restoration was intact. Preoperative pain was a potential predictor (P < .05) for early failure. Eleven late failures occurred between 2 and 4 years: 1 tooth with intact coronal restoration had pulp necrosis and asymptomatic apical periodontitis, 4 had recurrent caries resulting in asymptomatic apical periodontitis, 4 remained vital and only needed new restorations, 1 was unrestorable, and 1 was extracted for periodontal reasons. The type of definitive restoration was a potential predictor for late failure (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Carious pulp exposures in asymptomatic mature permanent teeth can be predictably managed by pulpotomy using a tricalcium silicate cement. Short-term failures were few and managed by pulpectomy. Appropriate coronal restoration is critical to long-term success.

Outcome of Partial Pulpotomy in Cariously Exposed Posterior Permanent Teeth: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

The current systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the success rate of partial pulpotomy in treating permanent posterior teeth with carious vital pulp exposure. A secondary aim was to assess the prognostic factors using a meta-regression.

METHODS

An electronic search was performed for studies from January 1950 to November 2018 in the following databases: PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane. All searches were performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Clinical studies evaluating the success rate of cariously exposed vital human permanent posterior teeth treated with a partial pulpotomy were selected. Only randomized clinical trials and prospective clinical studies were included for evaluation. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and the Cochrane Collaboration's tool were used to evaluate risk assessment.

RESULTS

From the 218 studies identified through the initial search, 11 studies qualified for the final analysis (5 randomized clinical trials and 6 prospective studies). The results of the meta-analysis indicate a success rate of 98% (confidence interval [CI]: 0.94-1), 96% (CI: 0.92-0.99), and 92% (CI: 0.83-0.97) after 6 months and 1 and 2 years of follow-up. Examining the probable prognostic factors using meta-regression analysis, only preoperative pulp status (P = .001) was identified as a significant factor, with studies including teeth with the presumptive diagnosis of irreversible pulpitis displaying significantly lower results. The final solution, pulp capping material, apex closure, and the age of the patient did not affect the treatment success rate (P > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

The available data suggest that a partial pulpotomy results in high success rates in treating cariously exposed permanent posterior teeth up to 2 years. Six months of monitoring can be considered an appropriate period when evaluating the success of a partial pulpotomy although more clinical and radiographic controls are essential to ensuring success.

Cost-effectiveness of pulp capping and root canal treatment of young permanent teeth

OBJECTIVE

To contribute with information on cost-effectiveness of pulp capping and root canal treatment of posterior permanent vital teeth in children and adolescents with pulp exposures due to caries.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Cost-effectiveness by means of a Markov simulation model was studied in a Scandinavian setting. In a simulated 12-year-old patient, treatment of pulpal exposure of a permanent tooth, either by the initial treatment pulp capping or root canal treatment, was followed for 9 years until the patient was 21. The model was based on outcome data obtained from published literature and cost data based on reference prices.

RESULTS

In the simulated case, with the annual failure probalility (AFP) of 0.034 for pulp capping, the total cost for an initial treatment with pulp capping and any anticipated following treatments during the 9 years, was 367 EUR lower than for a root canal treatment as the initial treatment. After an initial treatment with pulp capping 10.4% fewer teeth, compared with initial root canal treatment, were anticipated to be extracted. Pulp capping was thus considered to be the cost-effective alternative. The sensitivity analyses showed that the AFP of a tooth requiring a root canal treatment after an initial pulp capping needed to be 0.2 before root canal treatment may be considered being the cost-effective treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

This model analysis indicated initial treatment by pulp capping to be cost-effective compared to root canal treatment in children and adolescents with pulp exposures due to caries.

Partial pulpotomy with two bioactive cements in permanent teeth of 6- to 18-year-old patients with signs and symptoms indicative of irreversible pulpitis: a noninferiority randomized controlled trial

AIM

To compare the outcome of partial pulpotomy using two cements, ProRoot MTA (Dentsply, Tulsa Dental Specialties, Tulsa, OK, USA) and Biodentine (Septodont, Saint-Maur-des-Fossés, France), in permanent teeth of 6- to 18-year-old patients with signs and symptoms indicative of irreversible pulpitis. Furthermore, the frequencies of perceptible grey discoloration caused by the cements were compared.

METHODOLOGY

Sixty-nine permanent first molars with signs and symptoms indicative of irreversible pulpitis, from 69 patients, were included. All operators performed partial pulpotomy under a standardized protocol. Teeth were allocated, using a website-generated number of simple randomization, to partial pulpotomy with either ProRoot MTA (37 teeth) or Biodentine (32 teeth) and were restored with composite resin or stainless steel crowns. Patients were recalled every 6 months. To be categorized as having success, the evaluated tooth must have had both clinical and radiographic success. In addition, photographs of treated teeth were evaluated for frequency of perceptible grey discoloration. Success rates between the two cements were compared using the Fisher exact test. The frequencies of perceptible grey discoloration were compared using the chi-square test. The percentage difference was estimated by 95% confidence interval, and the level of significant difference was P < 0.05.

RESULTS

At a mean follow-up of 32.2 ± 17.9 months, a total of 67 teeth, 37 with ProRoot MTA and 30 with Biodentine, were available for evaluation. The mean age of participants was 10 ± 2.1 years and, there were no differences in the baseline variables (gender, age, tooth type, periapical status, stage of root development, final restoration and follow-up period) between the groups. The overall success in both groups was 90%, with 92% for ProRoot MTA and 87% for Biodentine (difference, 5%; 95% confidence interval, -9% to 19%, P = 0.487), suggesting that Biodentine was noninferior to ProRoot MTA. Perceptible grey discoloration was observed in both groups, 80% for teeth treated with ProRoot MTA and 27% for teeth treated with Biodentine, with a significant difference between the materials (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Permanent teeth with signs and symptoms indicative of irreversible pulpitis in 6- to 18-year-old patients were successfully treated with partial pulpotomy using both cements. Biodentine exhibited significantly less frequency of discoloration than did ProRoot MTA.

Physical properties and biological effects of mineral trioxide aggregate mixed with methylcellulose and calcium chloride

Objectives:

Methylcellulose (MC) is a chemical compound derived from cellulose. MTA mixed with MC reduces setting time and increases plasticity. This study assessed the influence of MC as an anti-washout ingredient and CaCl₂ as a setting time accelerator on the physical and biological properties of MTA.

Material and Methods:

Test materials were divided into 3 groups; Group 1(control): distilled water; Group 2: 1% MC/CaCl₂; Group 3: 2% MC/CaCl₂. Compressive strength, pH, flowability and cell viability were tested. The gene expression of bone sialoprotein (BSP) was detected by RT-PCR and real­ time PCR. The expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and mineralization behavior were evaluated using an ALP staining and an alizarin red staining.

Results:

Compressive strength, pH, and cell viability of MTA mixed with MC/CaCl₂ were not significantly different compared to the control group. The flowability of MTA with MC/CaCI₂ has decreased significantly when compared to the control (p<.05). The mRNA level of BSP has increased significantly in MTA with MC/CaCl₂ compared to the control (p<.05). This study revealed higher expression of ALP and mineralization in cells exposed to MTA mixed with water and MTA mixed with MC/CaCl₂ compared to the control (p<.05).

Conclusions:

MC decreased the flowability of MTA and did not interrupt the physical and biological effect of MTA. It suggests that these cements may be useful as a root-end filling material.

Human Pulp Responses to Partial Pulpotomy Treatment with TheraCal as Compared with Biodentine and ProRoot MTA: A Clinical Trial

INTRODUCTION

Questions exist regarding the efficacy of resin-containing materials such as TheraCal directly applied on the pulp. This study sought to investigate the clinical efficacy of TheraCal as compared with Biodentine and ProRoot mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) for partial pulpotomy.

METHODS

In this clinical trial, partial pulpotomy was performed for 27 sound human maxillary and mandibular third molars scheduled for extraction. The teeth were randomly divided into 3 groups (n = 9) and underwent partial pulpotomy with TheraCal, Biodentine, and ProRoot MTA. The teeth were then restored with glass ionomer cement. Clinical and electric pulp tests were performed after 1 and 8 weeks. The teeth were radiographed and extracted at 8 weeks. Histologic sections were prepared and analyzed for pulp inflammation and dentinal bridge formation. Data were analyzed by using one-way analysis of variance.

RESULTS

Clinical examination showed no sensitivity to heat, cold, or palpation in ProRoot MTA and Biodentine groups. Two patients in TheraCal group (20%) reported significant pain at 1 week. Periapical radiographs showed no periapical pathology, and electric pulp test revealed a normal pulp response with no hypersensitivity. Inflammation was absent with all materials at 8 weeks. Normal pulp organization was seen in 33.33% of the teeth in ProRoot MTA, 11.11% in TheraCal, and 66.67% in Biodentine group (P = .06). Biodentine group showed complete dentinal bridge formation in all teeth, whereas this rate was 11% and 56% in TheraCal and ProRoot MTA groups, respectively (P = .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, Biodentine and MTA performed better than TheraCal when used as partial pulpotomy agent and presented the best clinical outcomes.

Healing response of rat pulp treated with an injectable keratin hydrogel

Background

Keratin has shown promising outcomes as a biomaterial due to its inherent bioactivity, biocompatibility and regenerative effects. The effect of keratin on repair and regeneration of dental tissues has never been studied before. Current therapies to treat pulp tissues involve its replacement with inert, synthetic materials that do not have a proper biological function, leading to failure and tooth loss. This study aimed to develop a biocompatible keratin hydrogel (KH) suitable for pulp therapies.

Methods

Keratins extracted from sheep wool were isolated, quantified and reconstituted to form KH. Different concentrations of keratin gel suitable for dental application were characterized by rheological analysis. The optimized gel based on flow characteristics was studied further for microstructure including porosity, percentage swelling ratio and contact angle measurements, using analytical tools such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), micro-computed tomography and goniometer. To assess both biocompatibility and pulpal response, KH was implanted into rat upper molar teeth following partial pulpotomy. After 28 days, the tissue sections were analyzed by histological and immunohistochemical methods to identify dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP-1) formation and compared with control (Ca(OH)₂-treated) teeth.

Results

The results of the study demonstrated a viscous and injectable, porous, dimensionally stable, hydrophilic and biocompatible gel that allowed pulp healing to occur by a reparative response, with widespread DMP-1 expression.

Conclusions

The findings of this study indicate that keratins can be developed as a biomaterial source for alternate biological treatment options for pulp therapies.

Current trends and future perspectives of dental pulp capping materials: A systematic review

To systematically review the literature to analyze the current trends and future perspectives of dental pulp capping materials through an analysis of scientific and technological data. This study is reported in accordance with the PRISMA Statement. Nine databases were screened: PubMed (MedLine), Lilacs, IBECS, BBO, Web of Science, Scopus, SciELO, Google Scholar, and The Cochrane Library. Additionally, the following patent applications were searched online in Questel Orbit (Paris, France), USPTO, EPO, JPO, INPI, and Patentscope databases. A total of 716 papers and 83 patents were included. Calcium hydroxide was the main type of material studied, especially for direct pulp capping, followed by MTA. Patents related to adhesives or resins increased from 1998 e 2008, while in the last years, a major increase was observed in bioactive materials (containing bioactive proteins), materials derived from MTA (calcium silicate, calcium phosphate and calcium aluminate-based cements) and MTA. It was possible to obtain a scientific and technological overview of pulp capping materials. MTA has shown favorable results in vital pulp therapy that seem to surpass the disadvantages of calcium hydroxide. Recent advances in bioactive materials and those derived from MTA have shown promising results that could improve biomaterials used in vital pulp treatments. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 1358-1368, 2018.

Calcium-Enriched Mixture Pulpotomy of Primary Molar Teeth with Irreversible Pulpitis. A Clinical Study

Objectives:

To evaluate the outcome of vital pulp therapy in primary teeth with irreversible pulpitis by using calcium-enriched mixture (CEM) cement according to clinical and radiographic assessment.

Participants and Methods:

Fifty primary molar teeth with irreversible pulpitis in 50 children aged 6-8 years underwent pulpotomy using CEM cement as the dressing material. Following pulpotomy, pain intensity was evaluated by use of a visual analog scale at 1 and 7 days from the treatment and in clinical appointments at 3, 6 and 12 months after baseline. Radiographic evaluation was performed at 6 and 12 months. Data were analyzed using the McNemar test.

Results:

A total of 42 children (mean age 7.26 ± 0.82 year) completed the study. After one day treatment 56 % of children reported complete relief of pain and after 7 days 62% reported the same. However, two children complained of increased pain 1 day after treatment. None of the children reported pain in the subsequent appointments. One child complained of tenderness in percussion after 6 months. Pulp canal obliteration was the most common change in the radiographic assessment. There was no significant difference between clinical (92.8%) and radiographic (90.4%) success (p=0.990).

Conclusion:

Pulpotomy using CEM cement could present a successful treatment in primary molar teeth with irreversible pulpitis.

A Prospective Clinical Pilot Study on the Level of Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 in Dental Pulpal Blood as a Marker for the State of Inflammation in the Pulp Tissue

INTRODUCTION

Differentiation between reversible pulpitis (savable pulp) and irreversible inflammation of the pulp tissue (nonsavable pulp) based only on clinical and radiographic diagnoses has proven to be difficult. Pulp exposure allows for the collection of pulpal blood to quantitatively determine the level of inflammation markers or proteolytic enzymes, even with small samples. Pulpitis is associated with the invasion of neutrophil granulocytes and their release of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9).

METHODS

Forty-four patients (aged 18-74 years, mean = 35 years), each with 1 tooth with carious pulp exposure presenting with different stages of pulpitis, were included in this prospective, 2-center clinical study; 26 patients presented with irreversible pulpitis (groups 3 and 4), 10 with reversible pulpitis (group 2), and 8 with completely asymptomatic teeth with deep carious lesions (group 1). Six of the 26 patients with teeth diagnosed with irreversible pulpitis had not taken any nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and were evaluated as a separate group (group 4). Partial pulpotomy and blood sample collection from the pulp chamber were performed. The total levels of MMP-9 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 were assessed by fluorometric and colorimetric enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, respectively. The Mann-Whitney U test and Spearman rank correlations were used to compare the MMP-9 levels with different stages of pulpal inflammation; significance was set at .05.

RESULTS

The MMP-9 levels in the asymptomatic teeth (group 1) were significantly different from those in the teeth with reversible pulpitis (group 2, P = .006) or irreversible pulpitis (group 4, P < .001). A statistically significant difference was also observed between the MMP-9 levels in group 1 and group 3 (P < .001) in which the patients had taken nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings indicate that the MMP-9 levels in pulpal blood samples could be a useful ancillary diagnostic tool for distinguishing different stages of pulp tissue inflammation.

Outcome of Direct Pulp Capping with Mineral Trioxide Aggregate: A Prospective Study

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this experimental study was to assess the outcome of direct pulp capping with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) after complete excavation of caries in permanent dentition with a 2-visit treatment protocol.

METHODS

Sixty-four teeth with deep carious lesions were consecutively selected. The mean age of the patients was 36.1 ± 15 years. An initial diagnosis of deep caries, with no irreversible pulp involvement, was made. Excavation of caries was performed under a rubber dam and operating microscope magnification. White MTA was applied, and a provisional restoration was placed. At the following appointment, positive sensibility testing and the MTA setting were confirmed. Bonded composite restorations were placed afterward. The patient was recalled at least 1 year after treatment for clinical and radiographic control. Outcome was described as success or failure. Success was defined as lack of complaints from the patient, positive reaction to cold testing, no sensitivity to percussion, and no widening of the periodontal ligament on the recall periapical radiograph.

RESULTS

Forty-six teeth (77.9%) were recalled after 3.6 years (standard deviation = 1.1 years). The overall success rate was 91.3%. The success rate in occlusal caries was 100% and 89.7% in proximal caries (difference = 10.3%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 8.5-89.1). The success rate in initial caries was 94.7% and 88.9% in secondary caries (difference = 5.8%; 95% CI, -48.1 to 59.7). The success rate in patients younger than 40 years was 100% and 80% in patients aged 40 years or older (difference = 20%; 95% CI, 4.2-35.8).

CONCLUSIONS

Direct pulp capping with MTA after pulp exposure during excavation of deep caries could maintain pulp vitality in permanent teeth when a 2-visit treatment protocol is observed.