Regenerative endodontic therapy: a data analysis of clinical protocols

Area of Science:

• Endodontics
• Regenerative Medicine
• Dental Research

Background:

• Regenerative endodontic therapy (RET) aims to replace damaged dentin and pulp tissue.
• Clinical protocols for RET exhibit considerable variability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically analyze existing protocols in regenerative endodontic therapy.
• To identify variations in clinical procedures within RET.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of PubMed (1993-2014) and reference lists.
• Inclusion criteria applied by three independent reviewers.
• Analysis of 60 relevant publications on RET clinical procedures.

Main Results:

• 68% of studies avoided mechanical instrumentation of canal walls.
• Sodium hypochlorite used as irrigant in 97% of studies.
• Antibiotic paste used as medicament in 80% of studies.
• Mineral trioxide aggregate used as coronal barrier in 85% of studies.

Conclusions:

• High variability exists in current regenerative endodontic procedures.
• A detailed analysis of RET protocols can inform clinical decision-making.
• Standardization or understanding of variations may enhance outcomes of regenerative endodontic procedures (REPs).