Effect of Indirect Pulp Capping Materials On Regional Dentin Seal

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Dental Materials Science
• Adhesive Dentistry

Background:

• Indirect pulp capping (IPC) is a vital dental procedure to preserve pulp vitality.
• Evaluating the impact of IPC materials on the integrity of the dentin-tooth structure is crucial for long-term restoration success.
• Understanding the influence of various IPC agents on the bond strength to dentin is essential for clinical decision-making.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the in-vitro effect of six different indirect pulp capping materials on the micro-tensile bond strength (µ-TBS) to surrounding dentin.
• To determine if IPC materials compromise the peripheral seal of adhesive restorations.
• To compare the performance of Kerr Life (KL), Dycal (DY), Theracal LC (TC), Calcimol LC (CL), Biodentine (BD), and ProRoot MTA (PR).

Main Methods:

• Fifty-six human third molars were used, with occlusal dentin exposed in 42 teeth.
• IPC materials were applied centrally, followed by bonding with Scotchbond Universal and composite resin restoration.
• Micro-tensile bond strength (µ-TBS) testing was performed at different distances from the IPC, with fracture analysis and SEM imaging.

Main Results:

• A significant reduction in peripheral seal was observed only for Kerr Life (KL).
• All tested IPC materials demonstrated increasing bond strengths from the central application area towards the periphery.
• These findings suggest a potential contamination effect of IPC materials on the surrounding dentin interface.

Conclusions:

• Indirect pulp capping materials, excluding Kerr Life, do not compromise the peripheral dentin seal when used in deep cavity preparations.
• Hydraulic cements, such as Biodentine and Theracal LC, can be utilized without adverse effects on the peripheral dentin seal.
• The study highlights the importance of material selection in indirect pulp capping to maintain restoration integrity.