Coronal pulp dimensions in noncarious and restored deciduous second molars: a radiovisiographic study

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Dentistry
• Dental Anatomy
• Restorative Dentistry

Background:

• Understanding primary tooth anatomy is crucial for effective dental treatment.
• Coronal pulp dimensions can be influenced by various factors, including tooth type and sex.
• The impact of restorative procedures on primary pulp dimensions requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To measure coronal pulp dimensions in primary maxillary and mandibular second molars.
• To assess the influence of restorative procedures on these pulp dimensions.

Main Methods:

• Radiovisiography and morphometric analysis were used on 80 children aged 4-7.
• Standard bitewing radiographs and parallel cone technique were employed.
• Data analysis included student's t test (unpaired).

Main Results:

• Significant differences in crown and coronal pulp dimensions were observed between noncarious primary maxillary and mandibular second molars.
• No significant reductions in pulp dimensions were found in restored primary molars.
• Maxillary molars showed greater mesiodistal crown width in males compared to females.

Conclusions:

• Primary mandibular molars exhibit larger coronal pulp dimensions than maxillary molars.
• Restorative procedures, including Class I and Class II amalgam restorations, did not significantly reduce pulp dimensions over six months.
• Sex influences mesiodistal crown width in primary maxillary molars.