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Pulpal response to prolonged dentinal exposure to sodium hypochlorite
H M Tang1, H Nordbö, L K Bakland
1Department of Endodontics, School of Dentistry, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, USA.
International Endodontic Journal
|April 20, 2001
Summary
Undiluted sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) applied to freshly cut dentine in dog teeth did not cause significant additional pulpal inflammation beyond that from cavity preparation. Pulp tissue showed mild inflammation initially, resolving by one week.
Area of Science:
- Endodontics
- Dental Materials Science
- Oral Histology
Background:
- Vital pulp therapy aims to maintain pulp vitality.
- Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) is a common irrigant in endodontics.
- The effect of undiluted NaOCl on exposed vital pulp tissue is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the pulpal response to undiluted 5.25% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) applied to freshly cut dentine in a vital tooth model.
- To compare the effects of NaOCl irrigation versus saline irrigation on pulp tissue inflammation.
Main Methods:
- Class V cavities were prepared in Beagle dog teeth.
- Cavities were irrigated with 5.25% NaOCl or saline for 5 minutes.
- Pulpal tissue subjacent to cavities was histologically evaluated for inflammation at 24 hours, 1 week, and 4 weeks.
Main Results:
- All teeth, regardless of irrigation type (NaOCl or saline), exhibited mild pulpal inflammation at 24 hours.
- Pulpal inflammation resolved completely in all teeth by 1 week and remained absent at 4 weeks.
Conclusions:
- Undiluted NaOCl application to freshly cut dentine in this model did not induce greater pulpal damage than mechanical preparation alone.
- The observed pulpal inflammation was transient and resolved, suggesting NaOCl is safe for vital pulp when used in this context.
