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Pulp-test responses in orthodontic patients
S G Cave1, T J Freer, H M Podlich
1Dental School, The University of Queensland, Australia.
Australian Orthodontic Journal
|December 28, 2002
Summary
Diagnosing orofacial pain in orthodontic patients requires caution. Electric pulp testing responses are altered by orthodontic treatment, making thermal testing a more reliable diagnostic method.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Orthodontics
- Pain Management
Background:
- Orofacial pain diagnosis can be challenging in orthodontic patients.
- Orthodontic treatment may alter pulpal physiology and responses to diagnostic stimuli.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of fixed orthodontic treatment on pulp vitality testing.
- To compare the reliability of electric and thermal pulp testing during orthodontic treatment.
Main Methods:
- Electric and cold stimuli were used to test pulp responses in maxillary incisors of orthodontic and non-orthodontic subjects.
- Testing was conducted at baseline, after appliance placement, and up to 252 days post-treatment.
- Response thresholds to electric and thermal stimuli were recorded.
Main Results:
- Orthodontic subjects initially had higher electric pulp testing thresholds, especially in lateral incisors.
- Orthodontic force application increased electric pulp testing thresholds, peaking at two months and remaining elevated.
- Thermal testing responses were more consistent and reliable compared to electric testing.
Conclusions:
- Dental practitioners should interpret electric pulp testing results cautiously in orthodontic patients.
- Thermal pulp testing, particularly with carbon dioxide snow, may offer a more reliable method for assessing pulp vitality during orthodontic treatment.
