Evaluation of a new pulp capping agent: a clinical investigation

Abstract

This study compared clinical results of two calcium hydroxide bases used in indirect pulp therapy on human teeth. Thirty-four teeth with deep carious lesions were treated with indirect pulp therapy. Eighteen teeth were treated with commercially available Improved Dycal and 16 teeth were treated with an experimental calcium hydroxide formula. Evaluation was made at intervals of three and six months. After three months, periapical and bitewing radiographs were made and the teeth were examined clinically for signs of pulpal degeneration. At the six-month evaluation, in addition to the radiographic and clinical examinations, cavities were re-entered and the unsound residual dentin was removed to ascertain the presence of a so1id dentinal base. Removal of all unsound residual dentin without an exposure of the pulp, as well as the clinical and radiographic examinations, were used to determine clinically successful treatment. In the experimental group 15 teeth were successfully treated; a success rate of 94.4 percent. Seventeen teeth in the control group demonstrated successful indirect pulp therapy; a success rate of 93.75 percent.