Conservative Treatment of Deep Dentin Lesions in Primary Molars: Case-Series

Abstract

Objective: To carry out a descriptive analysis of a case-series in which the indirect pulp capping (IPC) has been performed for treating primary molars with extensive caries lesions in dentin, in the Private of Specialization in Pediatric Dentistry. Material and Methods: A single calibrated examiner evaluated the medical records of 155 patients aged 2 to 13 years attended at the Foundation for Scientific and Technological Development of Dentistry (FUNDECTO) partnership the University of Sao Paulo (USP) in 2011-2013 in search of extensive caries lesions treated during this period. Were found only 20 deep caries lesions and with satisfactory clinical and radiographic documentation. Then, the materials and techniques used were collected, as well as instant success described after treatment and observation for no progression of the disease (pain, abscess or fistula). Results: The 20 lesions evaluated reached at least 2/3 of the dentin thickness and were active. In 70% of cases, the restorations were carried out with high viscosity or encapsulated glass ionomer cement, and in 30% of case with light-cured resin. In only one case was used calcium hydroxide cement as liner material before inserting resin. In the teeth treated, only three cases were considered failures. Conclusion: Regardless of the restorative material used and the technique employed, good immediate success rates of the conservative treatment in deep dentin lesions were found, which consequently reduces the risk of exposure and pulp intervention.