A retrospective study on iRoot BP Plus full pulpotomy for primary molars with partial irreversible pulpitis.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to observe the outcomes of iRoot BP Plus full pulpotomy in primary molars with partial irreversible pulpitis retrospectively. METHODS: Collect 102 cases of primary molars with partial irreversible pulpitis undergoing iRoot BP Plus full pulpotomy from January 2019 to August 2023, with a follow-up period of 24-47 months. Based on the presence of irreversible pulpitis symptoms before surgery, the included cases will be divided into asymptomatic group (n=53) and symptomatic group (n=49). Observe the clinical and imaging success rates of both groups. RESULTS: Clinical success rates were 96.2% and 97.9% in asymptomatic and symptomatic groups, and radiographic success rates were 96.2% and 93.9% respectively. CONCLUSIONS: iRoot BP Plus full pulpotomy can be used for the treatment of primary molars with partial irreversible pulpitis under an enhanced pulpotomy protocol.

Pulpotomy versus pulpectomy in carious vital pulp exposure in primary incisors: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Pulpotomy as a minimally invasive pulp therapy technique is the treatment of choice for carious pulp exposures, however many pediatric dentists perform pulpectomies in vital primary incisors. The aim of this split mouth randomized controlled study was to compare formocresol pulpotomy and zinc-oxide and eugenol pulpectomy in the treatment of vital pulp exposure in primary incisors. METHODS: Contralateral pairs of incisors were randomly assigned to receive pulpotomy or pulpectomy in children aging from 18 to 66 months old and were followed up for 12 months. RESULTS: 39 pairs of incisors were included. Clinical and radiographical success rates showed no statistical significant difference (p = 1, p = 0.8 respectively). Relative risk measures for clinical success rates (RR = 1.03, 95%CI 0.87 to 1.23) and for radiographic success rates (RR = 1.03, 95%CI 0.83 to 1.29) with CIs including number one showing no difference between the two groups. The Survival rate using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis score showed 82% for pulpotomy and 74% for pulpectomy at 12 months (P = 0.2). CONCLUSIONS: Both pulpotomy and pulpectomy techniques can be used successfully in the treatment of carious vital pulp exposure in primary incisors. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The trial was retrospectively registered in Clinicaltrials .gov with this identifier NCT05589025 on 21/10/2022.

The outcome of combined use of iRoot BP Plus and iRoot SP for root-end filling in endodontic microsurgery: a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: Root-end filling is important for the clinical outcome of endodontic microsurgery. Our previous study showed that combined application of iRoot BP Plus Root Repair Material (BP-RRM) and iRoot SP Injectable Root Canal Sealer (SP-RCS) in root-end filling exhibited better apical sealing as compared to the application of BP-RRM alone. The aim of this randomized controlled clinical trial was to evaluate the effect of the combined use of BP-RRM and SP-RCS on the prognosis of teeth with refractory periapical diseases after endodontic microsurgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 240 teeth with refractory periapical diseases scheduled for endodontic microsurgery were randomly divided into BP-RRM/SP-RCS group (n = 120) and BP-RRM group (n = 120). The patients were followed up at 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months after endodontic microsurgery. Pre- and post-operative clinical and radiographic examinations were performed to evaluate the treatment outcome. The 1-year success rate of endodontic microsurgery in BP-RRM/SP-RCS and BP-RRM groups was compared by Chi-square test. Factors that might impact the prognosis were further analyzed using Chi-square test or Fisher's exact test. RESULTS: A total of 221 teeth completed the 12-month follow-up. The 1-year success rates of the BP-RRM/SP-RCS and BP-RRM groups were 94.5% (104/110) and 92.8% (103/111), respectively. The combined use of BP-RRM and SP-RCS achieved a clinical outcome comparable to BP-RRM alone (P = 0.784). Tooth type (P = 0.002), through-and-through/apico-marginal lesion (P = 0.049), periodontal status (P < 0.0001), and Kim's lesion classification (P < 0.0001) were critical factors associated with the 1-year success of endodontic microsurgery. CONCLUSIONS: The combined use of BP-RRM and SP-RCS is a practicable method for root-end filling in endodontic microsurgery with a satisfactory 1-year clinical outcome. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The combined application of BP-RRM and SP-RCS in EMS is an effective root-end filling method with a satisfactory 1-year clinical outcome. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2100052174).

Comparative Evaluation of Push-out Bond Strength of Conventional Mineral Trioxide Aggregate, Biodentine, and Two Novel Antibacterial-enhanced Mineral Trioxide Aggregates.

AIM: To evaluate the push-out bond strength of two newly modified mineral trioxide aggregates (MTAs) with conventional MTA and biodentine. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Material preparation: Two commercially available bioactive bioceramics: Group I: Mineral trioxide aggregate; Group II: Biodentine; and two newly formulated modified MTAs: Group III: Doxycycline incorporated MTA formulation; Group IV: Metronidazole incorporated MTA formulation was used in the present study. All the test materials were then carried using a plastic instrument to the desired experimental design. Teeth sample preparation: A total of 120 teeth samples were collected and divided into four groups of test materials with 30 teeth samples per group. Single-rooted permanent teeth, that is, incisors were collected and stored in saline until the study was performed. Sectioning of the teeth into 2.0 ± 0.05-mm thick slices was performed perpendicular to the long axis of the tooth. The canal space was instrumented using Gates Glidden burs to achieve a diameter of 1.5 mm. All four prepared materials were mixed and placed in the lumen of the slices and placed in an incubator at 37°C for 72 hours. Push-out test and bond failure pattern evaluation: The push-out test was performed using a universal testing machine. The slices were examined under a scanning electron microscope (SEM) at 40× magnification to determine the nature of bond failure. All the collected data were recorded and statistically analyzed. RESULTS: The mean push-out bond strength was found to be the highest for group II (37.38 ± 1.94 MPa) followed by group III (28.04 ± 2.22 MPa) and group IV (27.83 ± 1.34 MPa). The lowest mean push-out bond strength was noticed with group I (22.89 ± 2.49 MPa). This difference was found to be statistically significant (p = 0.000). Group I samples had the predominantly adhesive type of failure (86.4%), while group II samples showed the cohesive type of failure (94.2%). Both the modified MTAs (groups III and IV) primarily showed mixed types of failures. CONCLUSION: Both the antibacterial-enhanced MTAs had better pushout bond strength compared to conventional MTA but did not outperform biodentine. Hence, it could serve as a substitute for conventional MTA due to its augmented physical properties. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Carious pulp exposure and nonvital open apices pose a critical challenge to pediatric dental practitioners. In such circumstances, maintaining the vitality of pulp and faster healing would help in a better prognosis. Novel MTAs without any cytotoxic components, and enhanced antibacterial contents with augmented physical properties can help in treating such clinical conditions. How to cite this article: Merlin ARS, Ravindran V, Jeevanandan G, et al. Comparative Evaluation of Push-out Bond Strength of Conventional Mineral Trioxide Aggregate, Biodentine, and Two Novel Antibacterial-enhanced Mineral Trioxide Aggregates. J Contemp Dent Pract 2024;25(2):168-173.

Failed Regenerative Endodontic Case Treated by Modified Aspiration-irrigation Technique and Apexification.

AIM: This report addresses the management of a large persistent discharging lesion in an 11-year-old boy. The report describes the use of aspiration-irrigation technique for the management of immature necrotic tooth with persistent discharge after a failed regenerative procedure. BACKGROUND: Regenerative endodontics aim to provide an increase in root canal width, length, and in apical closure. Alternative procedures, such as apexification, should be attempted when regeneration fails. If the canal cannot be dried to persistent discharge, the aspiration-irrigation technique can be used. The technique relies on using aspiration along with irrigation to remove pus from the periapical area. CASE DESCRIPTION: This is a case for an 11-year-old patient who had trauma to tooth #11, which resulted in the complicated crown fracture. He had an emergency management that included pulpectomy and intracanal medication at another clinic. Two years later, the patient was presented to our clinic. Upon examination, the diagnosis was previously initiated therapy with asymptomatic apical periodontitis in immature tooth #11. Regeneration was attempted first but failed. The mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) plug was removed, and the canal had persistent pus discharge. The canal was filled with intracanal medication, and then 2 weeks later, the canal was filled with triple antibiotic paste (TAP). Next visit, and due to continuous discharge, tooth #11 was treated conservatively with an intracanal aspiration-irrigation technique. An IrriFlex needle attached to a high-volume suction was used to aspirate the cystic fluid. Mineral trioxide aggregate plug apexification was performed in a later visit and the tooth was restored. CONCLUSION: During the 3-month and 16-month follow-up, there was resolution of the symptoms, a decrease in the periapical lesion size, and soft tissues appeared within normal limits. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Regenerative procedures are a good option for immature necrotic teeth. These procedures may fail due to persistent pus discharge from the root canals. The aspiration-irrigation technique is a good treatment option in cases of consciously discharging canals. How to cite this article: Alsofi L, Almarzouki S. Failed Regenerative Endodontic Case Treated by Modified Aspiration-irrigation Technique and Apexification. J Contemp Dent Pract 2024;25(1):92-97.

Platelet rich fibrin and MTA in the treatment of teeth with open apices.

BACKGROUND: The present study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of using platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) as the apical matrix for the placement of MTA in nonsurgical endodontic therapy for teeth with periapical lesions and open apices. METHODS: Twelve teeth from eleven patients with periapical periodontitis and open apices were enrolled in the study. Nonsurgical endodontic therapy was performed with the PRF used as an apical barrier and the MTA manipulated as an apical plug for further thermoplasticized gutta percha in the remaining part of the root canal. Clinical signs and periapical digital radiographs were recorded and analyzed to evaluate the curing progress after periodical follow-ups of 1, 3, and 6 months. The horizontal dimension of the periapical lesion was determined, and the changes in the dimensions were recorded each time. The Friedman test was used for statistical analysis, with P < .05 serving as the threshold for determining statistical significance. RESULTS: All patients had no clinical symptoms after the first month of treatment, with a significant reduction in the periapical lesion after periodical appointments. CONCLUSIONS: PRF is an effective barrier when combined with MTA for the treatment of teeth with periapical periodontitis and open apices.

[Application of bioactive ceramics iRoot BP Plus® in pulpotomy for complicated crown fracture of immature permanent anterior teeth in children].

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the clinical and radiographic effectiveness of a calcium silicate-based bioactive ceramic iRoot BP Plus® pulpotomy of immature permanent teeth with complicated crown fracture and to evaluate the factors influencing its long-term success rate. METHODS: The digital medical records of patients under 13 years old who had undergone iRoot BP Plus® pulpotomy in the Department of Oral Emergency or the First Clinical Division, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology from March 2017 to September 2022 due to complicated crown fracture of anterior teeth, and had taken at least one post-operation apical radiograph were reviewed. The clinical and radiographic information at the initial examination and follow-up period were obtained, including crown color, mobility, percussion, cold test (partial pulpotomy teeth), dental restoration, fistula, swelling or inflammation of the gingival tissue, the formation of apical foramen, pathologic radiolucency and calcification of pulp chamber or root canal obliteration. Data were tested by Fisher exact test and a multiple comparison. RESULTS: In the study, 64 patients including 37 males (57.8%) and 27 females (42.2%) with a mean age of 9.1 years : ere finally enrolled. The total number of permanent teeth that received pulpotomy was 75, and the average follow-up time was 19.3 months. The success rate was 93.1% with the time interval between dental injury and treatment in 24 h, while the success rate dropped to 88.2% with the time intervals beyond 24 h. The time intervals did not significantly affect the pulp survival rate (P=0.61) after pulpotomy (partial or coronal). The success rate 6 months after pulpotomy was 96. 0%, and one-year success rate was 94. 7%. A total of 23 cases were reviewed for more than 2 years after pulpotomy, and 6 cases failed. The mobility had no significant effect on the success rate (P=0.28). Pulp chamber calcification and pulp canal obli-teration were not observed in all the post-operative radiographs. CONCLUSION: The one year clinical and radiographic success rates obtained in this study indicate that iRoot BP Plus® is an appropriate pulp capping material option for pulpotomy treatment of complicated crown fracture in immature permanent teeth without displacement injuries. This technique has broad promotional value.

Randomized clinical trial of pulpotomy using a premixed injectable calcium silicate cement on mature permanent teeth with reversible pulpitis.

The aim of this two-center randomized controlled trial was to assess the outcomes and relative factors associated with pulpotomies performed using a premixed injectable calcium silicate cement, as compared to mineral trioxide aggregate in mature permanent premolar and molar teeth with reversible pulpitis. Included teeth were randomly divided into two groups according to pulpotomy material (ProRoot MTA [PMTA] group, Endocem MTA Premixed [EPM] group). After pulp exposure, the superficial pulp was either removed to a depth of 2 mm (partial pulpotomy) or completely amputated to the level of the root canal orifice (full pulpotomy). A 3-mm layer of either material was randomly placed over the pulp wound, followed by the application of a thin layer of a light-cured glass ionomer composite liner. The restoration procedure was then carried out during the same visit. After one year of treatment, the pulpotomy success rate was 94.4% (67/71), with no significant difference between the PMTA and EPM groups. The success rate was 93.9% in the PMTA group and 97.1% in the EPM group. There were no significant factors related to the procedures. EPM is a viable alternative to PMTA for single-visit pulpotomies of permanent premolars and molars.

Reprint of: The Effect of Mineral Trioxide Aggregate Obturation Levels on the Outcome of Endodontic Retreatment: An Observational Study.

INTRODUCTION: No clinical studies have examined the effect of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) obturation levels on the outcome of endodontic retreatment. This retrospective study examined treatment outcomes in three cohorts that compared overfilling, flush filling, and underfilling after orthograde retreatment using MTA. METHODS: Two hundred fifty patients with 264 teeth diagnosed with previously treated root canals and apical periodontitis retreated in a private endodontic practice were included. All teeth received MTA obturation and the extent of the final filling level was measured in relation to the major apical foramen. After 6-month follow-ups, all nonhealing cases were treated surgically. After 24- to 72-month reviews, the effect of preoperative lesion size and the degree of MTA obturation level were assessed. Multiple linear regression and time-to-event analysis using Stata 17 software (StataCorp LLC, College Station, TX) were used to evaluate the data. RESULTS: Within the three cohorts, 99 out of 108 overfilled teeth (91.7%), 90 out of 103 flush fills (87.4%), and 10 out of 53 underfilled teeth (18.9%) healed and were successfully retreated without surgery at 48-months. When surgical outcomes were included, the combined healed proportion was 93.2%. Preoperative lesion size was found to be an important predictor for retreatment nonhealing. A 1-mm increase in lesion size at baseline resulted in an estimated 11% (95% CI 1.04, 1.18)-38% (95% CI 1.22, 1.58) increase in the risk of surgery. Compared to overfilling and flush filling, underfilling was associated with an approximately three-fold increase in requiring surgery and characterized by delayed healing. CONCLUSION: MTA obturation is a viable retreatment option for teeth with nonhealing endodontic treatment. MTA overfills or flush fillings do not adversely affect healing outcomes. However, MTA underfilling increases the chances for nonhealing and surgical intervention.

One-year radiographic and clinical performance of bioactive materials in primary molar pulpotomy: A randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) is considered the gold standard material for pulpotomy procedures. However, some drawbacks such as poor handling and long setting time are challenging when it is used as pulpotomy dressing in primary molars in children. Hence, the purpose of this study was to compare the radiographic and clinical performance of a premixed, fast setting bioceramic root repair material (BC RRM-F) with MTA in vital pulpotomy procedures of primary molars, with or without the added seal of a stainless steel crown (SSC). METHODS: In this double blinded, four-arm, parallel group randomized contolled trial (RCT), 64 primary molars were randomly allocated to one of the four treatment groups: MTA (PDTM MTA WHITE)+SSC, MTA+GI (bulk fill glass ionomer with glass hybrid technology GC EQUIA Forte® HT), BC RRM-F+GI and BC RRM-F+SCC. All molars were evaluated clinically and radiographically according to the modified Zurn and Seale criteria at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months follow up. Multivariate cox regression models and Kaplan-Meier curves were used for survival analysis. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference between the success of both pulp capping materials used. Overall survival analysis showed that using GI instead of SCC as a final restorative material was significantly associated with increased risk of failure. CONCLUSIONS: TotalFill® BC RRM™ Fast Set Putty can be used as an alternative to MTA in primary molar pulpotomy. Regardless of the pulp capping material, one year survival of pulpotomized primary molars restored with SSC is higher compared to those restored with GC EQUIA Forte® HT. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Clinicians' preference and cost effectiveness may justify the use of either material in primary molar pulpotomy. Parents insisting on tooth-colored restorations for their children's pulpotomized teeth cannot be told that the expectation for success is the same as those restored with SSC, even if calcium silicate-based pulp capping materials are used.

Histological evaluation of the regenerative potential of a novel photocrosslinkable gelatin-treated dentin matrix hydrogel in direct pulp capping: an animal study.

BACKGROUND: To assess histologically the success of the pulp capping approach performed in traumatically exposed dogs' teeth using a novel injectable gelatin-treated dentin matrix light cured hydrogel (LCG-TDM) compared with LCG, MTA and TheraCal LC. METHODS: Sixty-four dogs' teeth were divided into two groups (each including 32 teeth) based on the post-treatment evaluation period: group I: 2 weeks and group II: 8 weeks. Each group was further subdivided according to the pulp capping material into four subgroups (n = 8), with subgroup A (light-cured gelatin hydrogel) as the control subgroup, subgroup B (LCG-TDM), subgroup C (TheraCal LC), and subgroup D (MTA). Pulps were mechanically exposed in the middle of the cavity floor and capped with different materials. An assessment of periapical response was performed preoperatively and at 8 weeks. After 2 and 8-week intervals, the dogs were sacrificed, and the teeth were stained with hematoxylin-eosin and graded by using a histologic scoring system. Statistical analysis was performed using the chi-square and Kruskal-Wallis tests (p = 0.05). RESULTS: All subgroups showed mild inflammation with normal pulp tissue at 2 weeks with no significant differences between subgroups (p ≤ 0.05), except for the TheraCal LC subgroup, which exhibited moderate inflammation (62.5%). Absence of a complete calcified bridge was reported in all subgroups at 2 weeks, while at 8 weeks, the majority of samples in the LCG-TDM and MTA-Angelus subgroups showed complete dentin bridge formation and absence of inflammatory pulp response with no significant differences between them (p ≤ 0.05). However, the formed dentin in the LCG-TDM group was significantly thicker, with layers of ordered odontoblasts identified to create a homogeneous tubular structure and numerous dentinal tubule lines suggesting a favourable trend towards dentin regeneration. TheraCal LC samples revealed a reasonably thick dentin bridge with moderate inflammation (50%) and LCG showed heavily fibrous tissue infiltrates with areas of degenerated pulp with no signs of hard tissue formation. CONCLUSIONS: LCG-TDM, as an extracellular matrix-based material, has the potential to regenerate dentin and preserve pulp vitality, making it a viable natural alternative to silicate-based cements for healing in vivo dentin defects in direct pulp-capping procedures.

Biodentine as a pulpotomy medicament for primary molars: a retrospective chart review.

This retrospective chart review study investigates the long-term clinical outcome of Biodentine® (Tricalcium silicate) as a medicament for pulpotomy in primary molars. Data in this retrospective study was collected from the dental records of all patients that had at least one primary molar receive pulpotomy treatment (CDT code: D3221) between 01 July 2012 and 01 July 2015. This data includes child's age, medical history, dental history, dental radiographs, pulpotomy procedure details and follow-up clinical notes. Kaplan-Meier Estimate was used to measure the fraction of successful pulpotomy procedures for up to 24 months. A total of 1758 pulpotomy procedures were performed on 1032 patients in our institute in the three-year period and 21.4% of them (N = 376) had follow-up dental records that qualified for the study. Eleven teeth out of 376 teeth were excluded from the statistical analysis due to loss of/broken stainless steel crowns (3.1%). Seventeen pulpotomy failures were identified out of the remaining 365 procedures. The survival probablity of using Biodentine® as a pulpotomy medicament is 96.3% for 18-month follow-up and 95.4% for 24-month follow-up. Biodentine®, a tricalcium silicate formulation, used as a pulpotomy medicament demonstrates a high clinical success rate (95.4%) over a 24-month peroid in primary molars.

Potassium-lowering effects of sodium zirconium cyclosilicate in the early post-transplant period.

PROBLEM: Hyperkalemia is a serious condition among intra-abdominal transplant recipients, and the safety and efficacy of sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (SZC) for its management during the early post-transplant period are not well-established. METHODS: Adults who received at least one 10-g dose of SZC within 14 days after an intra-abdominal transplant between January 2020 and July 2022 were included in our study. The primary outcome was the change in potassium (K+) levels following the first SZC dose. Other analyses explored adjunctive potassium-lowering therapies, potential gastrointestinal complications, and patient subgroups based on therapy and transplant type. RESULTS: Among the recipients (n = 46), 11 were kidney recipients, 26 were liver recipients, seven were simultaneous liver/kidney recipients, and two were simultaneous pancreas/kidney recipients. The mean time to first dose post-transplant was 7.6 (±4) days, and the mean change in serum K+ after the initial SZC dose was -.27 mEq (p = .001). No gastrointestinal complications were observed following the SZC dose. The mean increase in serum bicarbonate was .58 mEq (p = .41) following the first dose of SZC. Four kidney recipients required dialysis following the SZC dose. CONCLUSION: This study represents the largest investigation on the use of SZC in transplant recipients. A single 10-g dose of SZC reduced serum K+ levels in all subgroups, while the use of adjunctive K+-lowering therapies did not provide additional reduction beyond the effects of SZC. Importantly, no gastrointestinal complications were observed. These findings suggest that SZC may be a safe and promising therapeutic option for hyperkalemia management following solid organ transplantation.

Spectrophotometric Analysis of Color Stability Induced by Various Calcium Silicate Cements in Full Pulpotomy of Permanent Molars: Theracal PT, Biodentine, and ProRoot MTA.

AIM: The objective of this study was to assess the color stability induced by Theracal PT, Biodentine, and ProRoot MTA in teeth subjected to full pulpotomy, over a span of 6 months. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study employed a total of 48 freshly extracted intact human third molar teeth. Samples were randomly assigned into four groups (n = 12). All teeth, with the exception of the control group, underwent endodontic access. All materials were mixed in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines and applied at a thickness of 3 mm at the orifice level before they set. The study groups were negative control (was not prepared), positive control (ProRootMTA), Biodentine, and Theracal PT. Glass ionomer and composite resin material was applied to the cavities. The color measurements were performed using the VITA Easy Shade spectrophotometer. All measurements were repeated 3 times in the determined area on the middle buccal surface of the tooth at baseline that (T0); after access preparation and material placement and setting) and then subsequently at 7 (T1), 30 (T2), 90 (T3), and T4 (180) days later. Data were statistically analyzed by using Kruskal-Wallis H at a confidence level of 95% (P < .05). RESULTS: Compared with the negative control group, Biodentine and Theracal PT showed color stability (ΔE ≤ 3.7). The teeth treated with MTA showed clinically observable discoloration (ΔE ≥ 3.7) at T0, T1, T2, T3, and T4 intervals. At all-time intervals, the MTA group induced more discoloration than Biodentine and Theracal PT (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: Theracal PT and Biodentine caused least discoloration compared to PMTA even 6 months after its application in teeth undergoing pulpotomy, thereby offering clinicians a reliable alternative for use in the esthetic zone.

Evaluation of Fracture Strength after Repair of Cervical External Resorption Cavities with Different Materials.

INTRODUCTION: The aim was to evaluate the stress distributions on dentin and repair materials caused by static force applied to teeth, with cervical external root resorption (CER) after repair with different materials using finite element analysis. METHODS: This study was performed with the 3-dimensional finite element analysis method. Access cavity, root canal cavity dimensions, and supporting tissues other than cementum were modeled in the maxillary central tooth. The CER cavity was created on the labial side of the tooth model. The coronal side of the resorption cavity was restored with composite, and the radicular side with different materials (MTA, Biodentine, BioAggregate, calcium-enriched cement [CEM], glass ionomer cement [GIC], and resin-modified glass ionomer cement [RMGIC]). A static force of 300 N was applied to the palatal surface of the crown at an angle of 135° to the long axis of the tooth. The stress distributions in dentin and repair materials were analyzed. RESULTS: The highest stress in dentin was seen in the fFigmodel with unrepaired CER. In the models repaired with MTA, GIC, and RMGIC, von Mises stress values in dentin were greater than for repairs with Biodentine, BioAggregate, and CEM materials. The von Mises stress on the repair materials applied to the root were highest for the BioAggregate material. This was followed by CEM, Biodentine, MTA, RMGIC, and GIC materials, respectively. CONCLUSION: The repair of CER in the tooth significantly decreased the stress values in dentin. Biodentine, BioAggregate, and CEM absorbed more force and caused less stress to be transmitted to dentin compared to MTA, GIC, and RMGIC.

4-Year Pulp Survival in a Randomized Trial on Direct Pulp Capping.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to assess pulp survival in a randomized trial on pulp lavage in adult nonpainful posterior teeth with carious pulp exposure. The treatment included complete caries excavation, direct pulp capping with mineral trioxide aggregate, and immediate restoration with composite resin. METHODS: Fluid was collected from the pulp wound to assess matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and total protein values. Before pulp capping, cavities were randomly (block randomization, n = 48) washed with a physiological saline or a sodium hypochlorite solution (2.5% NaOCl). Treatment outcome was assessed clinically (cold test) and radiographically after at least 1 year and again after at least 3 years. Painful failures were differentiated from nonpainful failures. Pulp survival was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method including 95% confidence intervals (CIs) up to 1500 days. RESULTS: From the 96 patients originally enrolled, 73 individuals could be followed continuously. The clinical observations indicated a beneficial and sustained effect of pulp lavage with 2.5% NaOCl over a control treatment with physiological saline solution on estimated pulp survival 1500 days postintervention, with 7% (95% CI, 1%-40%) in the saline group versus 55% (95% CI, 30%-100%) in the NaOCl group. High MMP-9/total protein values in pulpal fluid collected from the exposed site indicated early and painful treatment failures yet were not associated with failures that occurred more than 250 days after intervention. CONCLUSIONS: The low 4-year success rates reported here challenge the concept of direct pulp capping in the cases that were included. NaOCl lavage did not only increase the survival of affected pulps substantially but also particularly diminished painful failures (33% in the NaOCl group vs 62% in the saline group). The lack of the predictive value of MMP-9 assessments beyond early treatment failures points to inflammatory states of the pulp tissue under deep caries, which are not related to neutrophil infiltration.

Primary Tooth Vital Pulp Treatment Interventions: Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses.

Purpose: to update the 2016 systematic review evidence for vital pulp therapy (VPT) for primary teeth affected by caries or trauma. Methods: The population, intervention, comparison, outcomes, and study (PICOS) design inclusion/exclusion was used for multiple databases. Risk of bias, meta-analyses using RevMan, and certainty of evidence was created. Results: A total of 299 studies were included; no trauma was found. Indirect pulp treatment (IPT) resulted in 97 percent success. Two calcium silicate cement (CSC) pulpotomies' success using mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) and Biodentine® were 94 percent and 90 percent, respectively, greater than for direct pulp capping (DPC; 86 percent) and other pulpotomies (moderate certainty). The success of IPT versus pulpotomy at 24 months showed no significant difference (P=0.31). Different liners or capping agents did not affect the success of IPT (P=0.79) or DPC at 24 months (P=0.24). The two CSC pulpotomies were not significantly different based on 24-month success (P=0.34). The formocresol pulpotomy success at 24 months was significantly lower than for MTA (P=0.02). Ferric sulfate had a significant lower success at 24 months than MTA pulpotomy (69 percent versus 92 percent; P=0.03). Zinc oxide eugenol, as a singular pulpotomy, had low success (65 percent). Selective/stepwise caries removal did significantly better at avoiding pulp exposures than complete excavation (P<0.001). Complete, selective, and no caries removal (Hall technique [HT], steel crown placement with no caries removal) had no significant difference in pulp vitality success for deep caries at 24 months (P=0.29). For deep caries affecting vital incisors, pulpotomy had significantly greater success than pulpectomy (P=0.002). The following had no significant effect on MTA pulpotomy success: coronal pulp removal methods; irrigation solution; method to control hemorrhage; base over MTA; treatment in one or two visits; and anterior or posterior teeth. Conclusions: Vital pulp therapy success of indirect pulp treatment or two calcium silicate cement pulpotomies demonstrated improved success over direct pulp capping and other pulpotomies based on 24-month evidence with moderate certainty. The Hall technique did not significantly reduce pulp vitality success versus caries removal.

Efficacy of Chitosan Scaffolded Calcium Silicate-based Cements for Treating Internal Resorption Defects with Perforation: In Vitro Study.

AIM: The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of chitosan scaffold combined with calcium silicate cements in the management of internal resorption with perforation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Internal resorption cavities were simulated in 20 human permanent maxillary incisors that were then divided into two groups: group I - biodentine and group II - chitosan scaffold combined with biodentine. The samples were evaluated for the mineralization activity at the end of the 7th day and 14th day using scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX) analysis. The data were recorded, tabulated, and then statistically analyzed. RESULTS: From the SEM-EDX analysis, the mean score of calcium and phosphorus ion uptake by the material was obtained. Statistical analysis by nonparametric Mann-Whitney test showed that there was statistically significant difference in calcium ion uptake at the end of the 7th day (p = 0.016) and at the end of 14th day (p = 0.043) between the group biodentine and group chitosan scaffold combined with biodentine (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: In this present study, the use of chitosan scaffolds combined with biodentine showed a statistically significant difference in the mineralization activity when compared with pure biodentine. These scaffolded biomaterials exhibited greater potential for mineralization in vitro which can be efficiently used for the management of teeth with internal resorption with perforation. Further clinical trials are required for the understanding of their behavior in real-world scenarios. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Calcium silicate cements have often exhibited defective hard tissue barrier formation and hence there is a pressing need to search for newer biomaterials that can overcome these shortcomings. Scaffolded biomaterials provide a controlled microcellular environment for bioactivity, and they were found to be efficient in the remineralization of tooth structure. The present study findings indicate that these chitosan scaffolds can be efficiently used in combination with calcium silicate cements for the management of internal resorption with perforation to enhance the treatment outcome.

Vital pulp therapy for permanent teeth with diagnosis of irreversible pulpitis: biological basis and outcome.

Root canal treatment (RCT) has been considered the conventional standard for the management of teeth with carious pulp exposure, particularly in mature teeth presenting with symptoms. Following a better understanding of the histopathology of deep carious lesions, the histology of the cariously exposed pulp and the healing potential of the inflamed pulp, vital pulp therapy (VPT) is increasingly adopted around the world for the management of permanent teeth with clinical signs and symptoms indicative of irreversible pulpitis. Furthermore, VPT became a recognized treatment modality by the European Society of Endodontology (ESE) and the American Association of Endodontists (AAE) by virtue of its high success rates reported in outcome studies using contemporary hydraulic calcium silicate-based cements. However, proper case selection, strict asepsis, capping materials and good coronal seal are mandatory for success. The aim of this paper is to review the biological basis for VPT in symptomatic teeth with carious pulp exposure and to report on the outcome of pulpotomy in teeth with clinical diagnosis of irreversible pulpitis.

Clinical applications of calcium silicate-based materials: a narrative review.

Calcium silicate-based materials are hydrophilic materials with biocompatibility and bioactivity properties. Despite many advantages, they might present some problems related to discolouration, setting time, manipulation and solubility depending on the composition of the product and the type of clinical application. Calcium silicate-based materials can be evaluated under two types according to their intended use: calcium silicate-based cements (CSCs) and calcium silicate-based sealers (CSSs). CSCs can be used in many endodontic procedures including perforation repair, resorption repair, apical barriers, guided endodontic repair, vital pulp treatment, endodontic surgery, root fractures and root canal filling as a core obturation material. CSSs are available for use with gutta-percha to obturate root canals using cold and warm techniques, including the sealer-based obturation technique. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the available literature on CSCs and CSSs and to provide up-to-date information and recommendations for their clinical applications.