In vivo outcomes of indirect pulp treatment using a self-etching primer versus calcium hydroxide over the demineralized dentin in primary molars.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcomes (24 months) of indirect pulp treatment (IPT) in primary teeth when a self-etching primer or a calcium hydroxide layer was used over the remaining carious dentin.

STUDY DESIGN

Primary molar teeth with deep carious lesions without signs and symptoms of irreversible pulpitis were divided into two groups, according to the capping material: Experimental group (1): self-etching adhesive system (Clearfill SE Bond); and Control group (2): calcium hydroxide liner (Dycal). Both groups were followed up after application of a resin restoration (3M - Z250).

RESULTS

After 2 years of clinical and radiographic follow-up, no statistical difference was found between groups (p = 1). The overall success rate reached 87%.

CONCLUSION

These results demonstrate that IPT has a high clinical and radiographic performance in primary teeth and is not dependent on the capping material used over the demineralized dentin.