Indirect and Direct Pulp Therapy in Primary Second Molars

Clinical and Radiographic Comparison of Indirect Pulp Treatment and Direct Pulp Capping in Deep Carious Primary Second Molars: One-Year Results

The purpose of this randomized controlled clinical trial was to compare the clinical and radiographic outcomes of indirect pulp treatment (IPT) and direct pulp capping (DPC) using mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) in deep carious primary molars. Children with deep dentin caries in primary molars were randomly assigned to receive either IPT or DPC. Clinical and radiographic evaluations were performed at 6 and 12 months to assess treatment success. The findings of this study aim to provide evidence-based guidance for the management of deep dentin caries in primary teeth.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Systemically healthy children aged 7 to 9 years
• Primary second molars with deep dentin caries indicated for vital pulp therapy
• Absence of clinical signs or symptoms of irreversible pulpitis
• No spontaneous or prolonged pain
• Teeth with no tenderness to percussion or palpation
• No pathological mobility, swelling, fistula, or abscess
• Radiographic findings showing intact lamina dura and normal periodontal ligament space
• Absence of periapical or furcation radiolucency
• No evidence of pathological internal or external root resorption
• Teeth considered restorable
• Written informed consent obtained from parents

Exclusion Criteria:

• Children with systemic diseases or medical conditions affecting healing
• Teeth with signs or symptoms of irreversible pulpitis
• Presence of spontaneous pain, night pain, or prolonged pain
• Teeth with periapical or furcation radiolucency
• Teeth with pathological internal or external root resorption
• Presence of pulpal calcifications or pulp stones
• Non-restorable teeth
• Lack of parental consent