Effect of different stripping techniques on pulpal temperature: in vitro study

Area of Science:

• Dental procedures
• Orthodontic techniques
• Pulp biology

Background:

• Proximal enamel stripping is a common orthodontic procedure for space creation and tooth size balancing.
• This procedure carries a risk of heat transfer to the pulp, potentially causing histopathological changes and necrosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify pulpal temperature fluctuations during various enamel stripping techniques.
• To assess the impact of different instrumentation and coolant methods on pulpal temperature.

Main Methods:

• Four enamel stripping methods were tested on 80 extracted human premolar teeth: air-rotor handpiece with spray, micromotor handpiece with/without coolant, and hand-held diamond strips.
• A J-type thermocouple measured temperature changes within the pulp chamber during the procedures.

Main Results:

• All tested stripping techniques elevated pulpal temperature.
• The highest temperature increase (3.5°C) occurred with micromotor handpiece without coolant.
• The lowest temperature increase (1.65°C) was observed with micromotor handpiece using coolant spray.

Conclusions:

• Frictional heat generation during enamel stripping necessitates caution.
• Utilizing a coolant spray effectively mitigates pulpal temperature increases, safeguarding pulp tissue.