A histological comparison of direct pulp capping agents in primary canines

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the pulpal response to four calcium hydroxide preparations in primary teeth. Data indicated the calcium hydroxide-saline paste induced more inflammation and produced a greater zone of mummification than the three commercial preparations studied. Unintentional deep impaction of the medicament or dentinal chips increased inflammation for all categories. All medicaments produced a superficial necrosis (mummification) of the pulp. The greatest degree of mummification was seen with the calcium hydroxide-saline paste. The calcium hydroxide-saline paste produced a thick dentinal bridge, located deeper in the pulp when compared with the commercial agents. Commercial agents produced narrower but sufficiently high-quality dentinal bridges. This study indicates that direct pulp capping of exposures in primary teeth is a viable procedure. The newer commercial agents may be preferred, as they produce minimal inflammation, satisfactory dentinal bridging, and preservation of most of the vital pulp tissue.