Radiographic assessment of primary molar pulpotomies restored with resin-based materials

The aims of this study were to: (1) retrospectively assess the overall performance of formocresol pulpotomies in primary molars when definitively restored with a resin-based material; and (2) compare the results to previously published studies using more traditional restorative techniques (stainless steel crown, amalgam).

Records of a 2-operator pediatric dental office using this novel restorative technique were reviewed. Pre- and postoperative radiographs of pulpotomized primary molars restored with Z-100 and with a minimum of 6 months of follow-up were compared to the contralateral nonpulpotomized tooth. Radiographic success was determined by the absence of furcation/periapical osseous radiolucency and internal/external pathologic root resorption. Patient's age, gender, tooth type and arch, follow-up time, ZOE base type used (IRM only or IRM with glass ionomer overlay), and number of surfaces involved were the variables analyzed in the study. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-square analysis.

Fifty-nine teeth in 52 patients met the selection criteria. Patient's age at treatment ranged between 44 and 118 months, with an average follow-up time of 21 months (range = 7 to 43). Significant failure rate was found in the mandibular arch (P = .035). When only the occlusal surface was restored, 100% success was obtained. With proximal restorations, 83% (15/18) success was obtained when the base was IRM followed by glass ionomer and 69% (22/32) success for IRM only (P = .259).

Overall, restoration of pulpotomized primary molars with resin-based material was inferior to reported success rates using stainless steel crowns. When proximal surfaces were restored, the failure rate (26%) was comparable to amalgam (23%). Prospective studies with larger sample size are necessary for definitive conclusions.