The Validity of Pulp Tests on Crowned Teeth: A Clinical Study

Area of Science:

• Endodontics
• Dental Diagnostics

Background:

• Assessing pulp vitality in crowned teeth presents diagnostic challenges.
• Electric pulp testing (EPT) and cold tests are common diagnostic modalities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the sensitivity and specificity of the bridging technique for EPT versus a cold test in crowned teeth.
• To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of these tests for pulp vitality.

Main Methods:

• Thirty crowned teeth were tested using a bridging EPT technique and a cold test.
• Pulp vitality was confirmed during endodontic access by observing bleeding.
• Data was analyzed using the McNamara test.

Main Results:

• The cold test exhibited higher sensitivity (87%) and accuracy (87%) compared to bridging EPT (66% sensitivity, 67% accuracy).
• No significant difference in specificity was found between the cold test and bridging EPT.
• The cold test demonstrated statistically significant superior performance in accuracy and sensitivity.

Conclusions:

• Both EPT and cold testing serve as important adjunctive tools for evaluating pulp status in crowned teeth.
• Clinical interpretation should integrate test results with other signs and symptoms.
• Further research may refine diagnostic approaches for compromised coronal restorations.