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Updated: Jul 11, 2026

Development of a Direct Pulp-capping Model for the Evaluation of Pulpal Wound Healing and Reparative Dentin Formation in Mice
Published on: January 12, 2017
Using mineral trioxide aggregate as a pulp-capping material
T R Ford1, M Torabinejad, H R Abedi
1Department of Conservative Dentistry, United Medical School, Guy's Hospital, University of London, England.
Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) demonstrated superior results compared to calcium hydroxide for pulp capping in monkeys. MTA showed minimal inflammation and complete dentin bridge formation, indicating its potential for vital pulp therapy.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Biomaterials Science
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Vital pulp therapy aims to preserve pulp vitality.
- Pulp capping materials are crucial for successful vital pulp therapy.
- Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) and calcium hydroxide are commonly used materials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of MTA and a calcium hydroxide preparation as pulp-capping agents.
- To evaluate pulpal responses and dentin bridge formation following pulp exposure and capping.
Main Methods:
- Dental pulp exposure in 12 monkey mandibular incisors using a No. 1 round bur.
- Pulp capping with either MTA or a calcium hydroxide preparation.
- Histological evaluation after five months.
Main Results:
- MTA group: No pulpal inflammation in 5/6 samples; complete dentin bridge formation in all 6 samples.
- Calcium hydroxide group: Pulpal inflammation in all samples; dentin bridge formation in only 2 samples.
Conclusions:
- MTA exhibits significantly better outcomes than calcium hydroxide for pulp capping.
- MTA promotes reduced pulpal inflammation and enhanced dentinogenesis.
- MTA shows considerable potential as a reliable material for vital pulp therapy.
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