Short term human primary pulpal response after direct pulp capping with fourth-generation dentin adhesives

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Dental Materials
• Pediatric Dentistry

Background:

• Direct pulp capping is a dental procedure to maintain pulp vitality.
• Adhesive resin systems are commonly used in restorative dentistry.
• Primary teeth present unique challenges in pulp management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the short-term histological response of human primary tooth pulps to direct pulp capping using three adhesive resin systems with the total-etch technique.
• To compare the efficacy of Scotchbond Multi Purpose (SMP), Prime & Bond 2.1 (PB), and Syntac Single Component (Syntac) in promoting pulp repair.

Main Methods:

• Class V cavities were prepared on primary molars, exposing the pulp.
• The total-etch technique was applied to the cavity, excluding the exposure site.
• Exposed pulps were capped with one of three adhesive resins, then restored.
• Teeth were extracted after 60 days for histological evaluation using H/B staining.

Main Results:

• Limited "attempted bridge formation" was observed in some samples treated with Scotchbond Multi Purpose (SMP) and Prime & Bond 2.1 (PB).
• No bridge formation was evident in other samples.
• Syntac Single Component (Syntac) showed the most severe histological response, while SMP exhibited the mildest reactions.

Conclusions:

• Direct pulp capping with the tested dentin bonding agents following the total-etch technique is not recommended for primary teeth.
• Further research is needed to identify effective materials and techniques for pulp management in primary teeth.