Direct pulp capping of permanent teeth in New Zealand general dental practice--a practice based research study

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Endodontics
• Dental Public Health

Background:

• Direct pulp capping (DPC) is a conservative treatment for vital pulp exposure.
• Understanding general dental practitioners' (GDPs) approaches is crucial for improving vital pulp therapy.
• Practice Based Research Networks (PBRNs) facilitate research translation in primary dental care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate treatment protocols and opinions on direct pulp capping (DPC) among New Zealand (NZ) general dental practitioners (GDPs).
• To explore the use of PBRNs in gathering practice-based evidence for DPC.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative thematic and quantitative analysis.
• An online survey distributed to NZ GDPs, collecting data on demographics, DPC protocols, continuing professional development (CPD), and philosophies.
• Utilized a PBRN to engage a diverse group of practitioners across NZ.

Main Results:

• 95% of 210 participating GDPs perceived DPC as successful, particularly for reversible pulpitis.
• Calcium hydroxide and Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) were common materials; MTA was favored for outcomes but faced barriers.
• GDPs recognized DPC as conservative, offering time and financial benefits, with most having engaged in CPD on vital pulp therapy.

Conclusions:

• NZ dentists perceive DPC as a successful and conservative treatment option for selected cases.
• The PBRN study successfully engaged dentists, providing insights into research utilization in clinical practice.
• Findings highlight the perceived benefits and material preferences in DPC, alongside barriers to advanced materials like MTA.