Primary Molar Teeth Research Articles

Efficacy of proinflamatory cytokines in the clinical and radiograpic outcomes of different primary molar pulpotomy agents: a comperative randomised study featuring a novel biomarker for pulpal diagnosis

BackgroundWhile the effect of biomaterials covering the pulp tissue is considered in the success of pulpotomy treatment, the level of pulpal inflammation is still very important for treatment success. The aim of this study was to compare IL-6 and IL-8 levels, known as good indicators of pulpal inflammation, with a new biomarker, presepsin, and to evaluate the impact of biomarker levels along with the pulp capping agents used in the treatment on the one-year success of pulpotomy treatment.MethodsThe study included 120 primary second molar teeth with pulpotomy indications from 75 children. To determine the pulpal inflammation status, pulpal bleeding samples were taken during treatment, and the levels of IL-6, IL-8, and presepsin were measured. During the pulpotomy treatment, MTA, NeoMTA™, and Biodentine™, and ZOE were randomly applied to groups of thirty teeth each. Patients were monitored for a period of 12 months post-treatment.ResultsIL-8, IL-6, and presepsin levels were significantly higher in teeth with pathology (p < 0.001). Biomarker levels were found to be higher in the NeoMTA and Biodentine groups, but this did not result in a statistically significant difference. (p > 0.05) Following pulpotomy treatment, the most successful material groups in order were MTA, ZOE, NeoMTA™, and Biodentine™.ConclusionPresepsin may be a usable indicator in predicting the level of inflammation. At the end of the one-year follow-up of pulpotomy treatment, more pathology was observed in the NeoMTA and Biodentine groups, where biomarker levels were higher, while no pathology was found in the MTA group, where biomarker levels were lower.Trial registrationNCT06398327/ 20,240,503.

Evaluation of Wear on Primary Tooth Enamel and Fracture Resistance of Esthetic Pediatric Crowns Manufactured from Different Materials

Background and Objectives: Advances in dental materials and CAD-CAM technology have expanded crown options in primary teeth due to their improved appearance and mechanical properties. Thus, this study aimed to assess the enamel wear and fracture resistance of prefabricated, milled, and 3D-printed esthetic pediatric crowns. Materials and Methods: The study involved 60 extracted maxillary second primary molars and 60 3D-printed resin dies, divided into six groups based on different crown materials (n = 10): prefabricated zirconia, prefabricated composite, milled composite, milled resin matrix ceramic, milled PEEK, and 3D-printed resin. Prefabricated crowns were selected after the preparation of the typodont mandibular second primary molar tooth, while milled and 3D-printed crowns were custom produced. The specimens underwent mechanical loading of 50 N at 1.6 Hz for 250,000 cycles with simultaneous thermal cycling. The 3D and 2D wear amounts were evaluated by scanning the specimens before and after aging. Then, the fracture resistance and failure types of the restorations were recorded. Results: The results showed that the milled PEEK group had superior fracture resistance compared to the other groups, while prefabricated zirconia crown group had the lowest value. Milled resin matrix ceramic crown group displayed the lowest 3D wear volume, while 3D-printed crown group showed the highest 2D wear. Conclusions: The restorative material type did not have a significant effect on the wear of primary tooth enamel. The fracture resistance of the tested materials differed according to the material type. Although the milled PEEK group showed the highest fracture resistance, all tested materials can withstand chewing forces in children.

A randomized controlled clinical trial of the performance of three bioactive endodontic cements in primary molar teeth diagnosed with reversible pulpitis: 1-year follow-up study

ObjectivesThe objective of this clinical trial was to evaluate and compare the clinical and radiographic successes of three bioactive endodontic cements (BEC) including novel portland cement-based material releasing fluoride, resin-modified silicate glass cement, and pure tricalcium silicate-based cement—in the treatment of primary molars diagnosed with reversible pulpitis via indirect pulp capping. MethodsEighty-six (86) participants with previously untreated first and second primary molars were included in this study. The teeth were randomly allocated into three groups: pure tricalcium silicate-based cement, resin-modified silicate glass cement, and novel portland cement-based material releasing fluoride. Cavities were capped with the assigned cement after caries excavation using standard protocols. The teeth that underwent treatment were restored using glass ionomer cement and composite resin. Clinical and radiographic evaluations were performed at 1, 6, and 12 months. The data were analyzed using Pearson chi-square, Kruskal–Wallis H and Z test (P = 0.05). ResultsThe success rate was 88 % (n = 25) in the pure tricalcium silicate-based cement group, 88.5 % (n = 26) in the resin-modified silicate glass cement group, and 100 % (n = 25) in the novel portland cement-based material releasing fluoride group. The differences at the 1st, 6th, and 12th month follow-up visits were not statistically significant among the groups (P > 0.05). No difference was found between the integrity of the resin composite restorations overlying pure tricalcium silicate-based cement, resin-modified silicate glass cement, and novel portland cement-based material releasing fluoride according to the USPHS criteria. ConclusionsNovel portland cement-based material releasing fluoride can be considered an alternative for preserving the tooth, as it showed a high success rate in treating primary molars diagnosed with reversible pulpitis via indirect pulp capping. Clinical significanceNovel Portland cement-based material releasing fluoride could be beneficial in the treatment of primary molars diagnosed with reversible pulpitis via indirect pulp capping.

Evaluation and Comparison of Dentin Thickness, Centering Ability, Canal Transportation, and Instrumentation Time of Pro AF Baby Gold and Pedoflex Files in Primary Root Canals Using a Cone Beam Computed Tomographic Analysis: An In Vitro Study.

Pediatric rotary systems have the advantage of improved canal centricity and conservative canal preparation with better obturation quality. Pro AF Baby Gold and Pedoflex files are two exclusive pediatric rotary file systems that were introduced in recent times. The aim of the present study is to compare and evaluate the dentine thickness, centering ability, canal transportation, and instrumentation time of Pro AF Baby Gold and Pedoflex files using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). A total of 40 extracted human primary molar teeth with a minimum 7 mm root length were included in the study and randomly divided into two groups: group I, Pro AF Baby Gold; group II, Pedoflex files. Teeth were imaged preoperatively with CBCT, then root canal preparation was done in both groups with respective files, followed by postoperative CBCT imaging to evaluate the dentin thickness, centering ability, and canal transportation of both groups. Instrumentation time was noted using a stopwatch. There is a statistically significant difference in the instrumentation time; Pedoflex took a shorter time when compared to Pro AF Baby Gold files. Regarding canal transportation, there was no significant difference between the two files, with Pedoflex showing a better value than the other files. Regarding centering ability, there was no significant difference between the two files, with Pro AF Baby Gold having a better value than the other files (p < 0.001). From the findings of our present study, it was found that both systems were able to effectively shape curved root canals in terms of canal transportation and centering ability. Busi S, PJ N, Deoghare A, et al. Evaluation and Comparison of Dentin Thickness, Centering Ability, Canal Transportation, and Instrumentation Time of Pro AF Baby Gold and Pedoflex Files in Primary Root Canals Using a Cone Beam Computed Tomographic Analysis: An In Vitro Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(8):892-897.

Apically extruded debris evaluation with the use of ProTaper Ultimate and TruNatomy files systems with and without glider preparation in primary tooth.

Information regarding the influence of resorption and glide paths on debris extrusion in primary teeth is lacking. Therefore, we evaluated debris extrusion with and without resorption and with and without the use of a path file in primary molar teeth prepared with ProTaper Ultimate (PTU) Prime and TruNatomy (TRN) Prime rotary file systems. Forty resorbed and forty non-resorbed primary molar teeth were collected. Both groups were divided into four subgroups (n = 10). The Eppendorf tubes were weighed pre-debris. The distal canals of the teeth were prepared with PTU Prime and TRN Prime file systems, with and without the use of path files. The debris-filled tubes were weighed, and the weight of only the extruded debris was calculated by subtraction. The data were analyzed using a three-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test. The presence of tooth resorption significantly increased debris extrusion, and the use of a path file significantly decreased debris extrusion (p < 0.001). The binary and ternary interactions of the three evaluated parameters among the groups showed no significant differences in terms of the amount of debris extruded (p > 0.05). While debris extrusion was observed in all groups, the use of a glide path file in primary teeth before the preparation process resulted in less debris extrusion.

Chemo mechanical caries removal CMCR: Efficacy of Carisolv gel in primary molar teeth.

To evaluate the efficacy of CariSolv gel with respect to chemo-mechanical caries removal in primary molar teeth. The cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Paediatric Dentistry, Bakhtawar Amin Dental College and Hospital, Multan, Pakistan, from July to December 2022, and comprised patients of either gender aged 6-12 years having vital, primary molar teeth with clinical and radiographic evidence of carious lesion. Freshly prepared CariSolv gel 0.2 ml to 1.0ml was applied to carious dentine for a minimum of 30 seconds, using chemo-mechanical caries removal hand instruments. The cavity preparation was rinsed and dried. Image caries detector dye was applied by micro brush for 10 seconds. After the cavity preparation was washed and dried, any red-stained dentine indicated residual infected dentine. A maximum of 3 chemo-mechanical caries removal cycles were allowed. Data was analysed using SPSS 26.0. Of the 134 patients, 74(55.2%) were boys and 60(44.8%) were girls. The overall mean age was 8.55±1.58 years. The procedure was successful in 115(85.8%) cases. Age and gender were not significantly associated with the outcome (p>0.05). Chemo-mechanical caries removal method using CariSolv gel was found to be a viable alternative to traditional drilling techniques for caries removal in primary molar teeth.

Evaluation of the optimal etching times and fissure sealant materials for bonding on primary teeth enamel: An in vitro study

The recommended 15-s acid etching time expands the enamel surface and facilitates the infiltration of restorative materials. Because of this clinical advantage, 15 and 30 s have become the most prevalent acid etching times in recent years. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of conventional and self-adhesive flowable composites (SAFCs) that were etched for different durations on primary molar teeth. Teeth were divided into eight groups (n = 16) and restored either with Vertise™ Flow and orthophosphoric acid or with Conseal F and orthophosphoric acid for 15, 30, 45, or 60 s. Then, the specimens were subjected to shear stress at a cross-head speed of 1 mm/min until the bond failed. After conducting the microshear bond strength (μSBS) test, failure modes were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy at 80 × magnification. Statistical analysis was performed using Independent sample T-tests and other T-tests (p < 0.05). According to the μSBS results, a statistically significant difference was observed among all groups (p < 0.05). Additionally, there were statistically significant differences between both restorative materials after etching for 15 s (p = 0.011; p < 0.05) and 60 s (p < 0.001; p < 0.05). While adhesive-type fractures were mostly observed in the SAFC groups, mixed-type fractures analyzed by scanning electron microscopy were determined to be relatively common in the Conseal F groups. An etching time of 15 s for primary tooth enamel was recommended instead of 60 s for all fissure sealants. In addition, the application of Vertise™ Flow after 15 s of acid etching was preferred over the application of Conseal F.

Modified Hybrid Hydroxyapatite-Silver Nanoparticles Activated via a Blue Light Source in Various Concentrations in Two-Step Self-Etch Adhesive to Caries-Affected Primary Dentin.

Aims: To evaluate hydroxyapatite-silver (HA-Ag) hybrid nanoparticles (NPs), as an antibacterial agent when integrated in self-etch (SE) adhesive. Blue light activated HA-Ag hybrid NP incorporation on mechanical properties, degree of conversion (DC), and microtensile bond strength (μTBS). Method: Eighty primary molar teeth have carious lesions reaching the dentin but not involving the pulp. The infected dentin was removed and carious-affected dentin (CAD) was preserved. Forty samples were inoculated with Streptococcus mutans. All primary teeth (n = 80) were allocated into four groups based on the incorporation of HA-Ag hybrid NPs in different concentrations (0%, 1%, 5%, and 10%). Group 1: 0% HA-Ag hybrid NPs + Clearfil SE bond primer, group 2: 1% HA-Ag hybrid NPs + Clearfil SE bond primer, group 3: 5 wt% HA-Ag NPs + Clearfil SE bond primer, and group 4: 10 wt% HA-Ag NPs + Clearfil SE bond primer. The survival rate assessment of S. mutans was conducted on 40 inoculated samples. On the remaining primary teeth (n = 40), Clearfil SE bonding agent was applied uniformly via a blue light source. The composite buildup was performed on the samples and μTBS and failure analysis assessed. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was performed to assess DC. Survival rates of S. mutans and μTBS among the tested groups were compared using ANOVA and Tukey post hoc analysis. Results: 10 wt % HA-Ag NPs + Clearfil SE bond primer exhibited the highest level of antibacterial efficacy (0.14 ± 0.02 CFU/mL) against S. mutans. The highest μTBS (18.38 ± 0.78 MPa) at the composite/CAD interface was in group 2 (1 wt % HA-Ag NPs + Clearfil SE bond primer + Clearfil SE bonding agent + activation with a blue light source). The highest DC was observed in the control group with Clearfil SE bond primer + Clearfil SE bonding agent + activation with a blue light source. Conclusion: 1 wt% HA-Ag hybrid NPs showed enhanced antibacterial effectiveness, DC, and bond strength of the SE adhesive to the primary CAD.

Evaluation of the Caries-Arresting Potential of Silver Diamine Fluoride Gel With Potassium Iodide Versus Sodium Fluoride Varnish: An Observational Study.

Introduction Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) with potassium iodide (KI) has emerged as a promising, aesthetic, non-invasive management by limiting the staining caused by SDF. However, no studies are comparing the caries-arresting potential of SDF gel with KI. The study aims to observe and evaluate the caries-arresting potential of SDF gel with KI compared to sodium fluoride (NaF) varnish. Materials and methods The present observational study was conducted with a split-mouth design. A total of 33 participants, in the age group of two to six years, with occlusal caries of the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) I and II involving both right and left upper or lower primary molar teeth, were included. SDF gel with KI and fluoride varnish (FV) was applied to the contralateral teeth on the same arch. Participants were recalled at 3, 6, 9, and 12-month intervals to monitor the progression or arrest of carious lesions. Result At the end of 12 months, 66.7% and 70.5% of the teeth showed arrest of caries with SDF gel with KI and FV, respectively. Intra-group analysis using the Friedman test shows significant differences in both groups across the timeline (p=0.001). Intergroup analysis using the Whitney U test reveals no significant difference in caries-arresting potential between the groups at various timelines (p=0.231). Conclusion There was no significant difference in arresting enamel caries of primary teeth between the use of 5% NaF and 38% SDF with KI. However, there was a significant difference within the group between the 3rd and 12th-month follow-up. Hence, the biannual application is recommended in both FV and SDF with KI.

Antimicrobial Efficacy of Saline, Chlorhexidine, and Zataria Multiflora and Mentha Piperita Essential Oils in Root Canal Irrigation of Primary Molars.

Objectives: This study aimed to compare the antimicrobial efficacy of saline, 0.5% and 2% Zataria multiflora (Z. multiflora) essential oil, 0.5% and 2% Mentha piperita (M. piperita) essential oil, and 0.2% chlorhexidine (CHX) as root canal irrigants for primary molar teeth. Materials and Methods: A total of 64 primary molars were used in this in vitro study. The teeth were randomly assigned to six groups (N=10). The root canals were prepared up to file #35, and all teeth were sterilized before contamination with Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis; ATCC 29212) suspension. After 48 hours of incubation, the root canals in each group were irrigated with the respective irrigants. Sterile paper points were then used to collect microbial samples from the root canals. A colony counter was used to count the number of colony-forming units (CFUs). Data were analyzed by SPSS version 20 (alpha=0.05). Results: The colony count was significantly different among the groups (P<0.001), and 2% M. piperita (P=0.009), 0.5% Z. multiflora (P=0.021), and 0.2% CHX (P=0.002) were significantly more effective than saline in elimination of E. faecalis. The ascending order of microbial count after irrigation was as follows: saline > 0.5% M. piperita > 0.2% CHX > 2% M. piperita > 0.5% Z. multiflora. Conclusion: The current study showed the optimal antibacterial activity of 0.5% Z. multiflora essential oil and 2% M. piperita essential oil against E. faecalis, and indicated their possible efficacy for use as an irrigant for root canal irrigation of primary molars.

Clinical and Radiographic Evaluation of Mineral Trioxide Aggregate and Human Amniotic Membrane Pulpotomy in Primary Molars: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

To clinically and radiographically compare the outcomes of pulpotomy with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) and human amniotic membrane (HAM) in primary molar teeth at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. The study was a randomized clinical trial with two arms. One arm consisted of participants whose pulpotomy was conducted using MTA, called group I, and the other arm, using HAM, was designated group II. Both MTA and HAM exhibited 100% clinical success. Also, there were no signs of external resorption, periapical bone destruction, or internal resorption in both the MTA and the HAM groups at all four time intervals in this study. However, periodontal ligament widening was seen in 30% of the participants in the MTA group at 1-month and at the 12-month follow-up, whereas in the HAM group, periodontal ligament widening was found to reduce significantly from 22.2% at 1-month to 11.1% at the 12-month follow-up. The HAM exhibited favorable clinical and radiographic outcomes in the present study. Mineral trioxide aggregate is the most preferred choice as a pulpotomy agent for deciduous teeth. However, various drawbacks associated with MTA have been fueling the need for newer, effective agents. HAM is not only easily available, cost-effective, and easy to handle but also favors tissue regeneration. The positive outcome of the present study strongly advocates the use of HAM as an alternative to MTA for pulpotomy in primary teeth. Joseph EJ, Rao A, Mahabala KY, et al. Clinical and Radiographic Evaluation of Mineral Trioxide Aggregate and Human Amniotic Membrane Pulpotomy in Primary Molars: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(6):641-646.

Comparative Evaluation of Success of NeoPutty Mineral Trioxide Aggregate ® with Formocresol as Pulpotomy Medicaments in Primary Molars: A Clinical Study.

This clinical study was aimed to investigate the clinical and radiographic outcomes of NeoPutty MTA ® (Nusmile), a novel mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) pulpotomy material, in primary teeth of children aged 4-6 years. An in vivo study was done in children aged 4-6 years old. A total of 50 primary second molar teeth were included in the study, with 25 of them undergoing treatment with formocresol (FC) and 25 receiving treatment with NeoPutty MTA ® . The subjects were divided into two groups for treatment: the first group received a treatment involving a 1:5 dilution of Buckley's FC. The second group, however, underwent treatment with NeoPutty MTA ® . This study employs a meticulous approach to evaluate the impact of different treatments on a significant number of molar teeth, using FC and NeoPutty MTA ® as the respective treatment methods. The demographics of the subject pool are well-documented, comprising a balance of male and female participants. The technique employed for pulp removal and the subsequent management of bleeding are outlined, underscoring the thoroughness of the process. At 12 months, the NeoPutty MTA ® pulpotomy group showed a significantly higher success rate clinically (96%) compared to the FC group (72%) ( P < 0.05), but radiographically although NeoPutty MTA ® was better (92%) than FC (82%), it was not statistically significant. NeoPutty ® -treated teeth exhibited no signs of pain or discomfort and demonstrated better pulp vitality compared to the FC group. NeoPutty MTA ® demonstrated superior clinical success rates and better radiographic outcomes compared to traditional FC pulpotomy.

Assessment of Two Different Obturation Systems in Primary Teeth: A Comparative Study

ABSTRACT Aim: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of two distinct obturation techniques in primary teeth. Materials and Methods: For this investigation, 40 primary molar teeth were taken into consideration. Every sample underwent sample preparation. All teeth were evenly split into two groups: Group 1-obturation using the lentulospiral method and Group 2-obturation using the NaviTip method. The comparison between the two procedures was established through radiographic evaluation of the obturation quality and voids in the obturated canals. Results: In the lentulospiral method, 12 (60%) were optimal filling, 6 (30%) were underfilling, and 2 (10%) were overfilling. In the lentulo spiral method, 40% voids were present, and in the NaviTip method, 15% voids were present. Conclusion: The present study concluded that the NaviTip syringe method was sufficiently effective in regulating voids and yielded the best results for the apical seal, whereas the lentulo spiral approach generated the best results in terms of length of obturation.

Comparison between the average dimensions of three brands of stainless-steel crowns (SSCs) and the average dimensions of primary molar teeth

Background: Stainless-steel crowns (SSCs) are usually used for deciduous teeth with more than two destroyed surfaces. Selecting the suitable SSC, in terms of proximal fit and marginal fit, has usually been challenging for practitioners. The current study compares the deciduous molar dimensions in the SCCs with the dimensions of these teeth given in the textbook. Methods: The dimensions of 3M, Kids Crowns, and KTR SCCs were measured using a digital caliper. Utilizing SPSS 26 software, the data was examined and compared to the table of standard sizes of primary teeth using one-sample t test, ANOVA, and Tukey’s test. P values less than 0.05 were considered significant. Results: The study showed no significant difference in upper first molar SSCs in the occlusal-cervical dimension in Kids Crowns (P=0.14) and 3M (P=0.078) and in the mesiodistal dimension in Kids KTR (P=0.083) and Crowns (P=0.22). There was no significant difference in lower first molar SSCs in the occlusal-cervical dimension in Kids Crowns (P=0.14) and in the buccolingual dimension in 3M (P=0.91) and KTR SSCs (P=0.09). There was no significant difference in the upper second molar SSCs in the occlusal-cervical dimension of Kids Crowns (P=0.28) and 3M (P=0.32). There was no significant difference in lower second molar SSCs in the occlusal-cervical dimension in Kids Crowns (P=0.27) and KTR (P=0.07), in the mesiodistal dimension in Kids Crowns (P=0.22), KTR (P=0.22), 3M (P=0.59) and in the bucco-lingual dimension of KTR (P=0.26) and 3M (P=0.78). Conclusion: SSCs and teeth had the highest conformity in the occlusal-cervical dimension and the lowest conformity in the mesiodistal and bucco-lingual dimensions. SSCs had the highest conformity with the lower molars.

Comparative evaluation of microleakage in glass hybrid resin, alkasite resin, and shock-absorbing rubber resin in primary molars– An in-vitro study

Background To evaluate and compare the microleakage of Glass hybrid resin (Equia Forte), Alkasite resin (Cention N), and Fluoride-releasing shock-absorbing rubber resin (Activa Bioactive) in Class V cavities of primary molars. Material and Methods Thirty freshly extracted human primary molar teeth with pre-shedding mobility were selected and a standard class V cavity was prepared on the buccal surfaces of all teeth. The teeth were divided into 3 groups of 10 samples each. The prepared cavities of all samples were restored with their corresponding restorative material. The teeth underwent thermocycling for 500 cycles and were then immersed in the toluidine dye solution. The depth of dye penetration scores between and within 3 groups was analyzed using the Kruskal Wallis One-way ANOVA test, followed by multiple comparisons with the Dunn-Bonferonni post hoc test. Results Cention N (alkasite resin) showed the least depth of dye penetration, which was highly statistically significant (p=0.000), followed by Activa Bioactive (Fluoride-releasing shock-absorbing rubber resin) and Equia Forte (Glass Hybrid resin). No samples showed depth involving the pulpal floor. Conclusion Cention N (alkasite resin) restorative material had the least microleakage and may be an excellent alternative material that provides a long-term clinical solution for the restoration of carious teeth with its improved marginal seal and reduced chances of microleakage. Clinical Significance Cention N may be an excellent alternative material that provides a long-term clinical solution for the restoration of carious teeth with its improved marginal seal and reduced chances of microleakage. Key Words: Activa Bioactive, Cention N, Equia forte, Microleakage, Resin cements

Effect of low-level laser therapy in wound healing of primary molar teeth extraction

IntroductionTooth extraction in children requires attention to wound healing and pain management, which are influenced by patient-related factors and behavioral guidance. Aim of the study: The study aimed to evaluate the effect of LLLT on healing sockets in pediatric patients with bilateral primary molar teeth extraction and determine its impact on pain management.Methods6–10 years of age, systemically healthy, and with atraumatic extraction indications of bilateral primary molar teeth were included in the study (n = 40). In the first session, randomly selected teeth were extracted under local anesthesia. In the control group, only clot formation in the socket was observed and photographed. The other group extractions were performed 2 weeks later. The low-level laser therapy (LLLT) group was treated with a 980 nm wavelength, in a continuous emission mode, 0.5 W power, 300 J of energy, 400 µm tip, 60 s diode laser and photographed. Nonepithelialized surface measurements were performed using ImageJ. Pain assessment was performed using the Wong-Baker Pain Scale. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software.ResultsThere was a statistically significant difference between the groups in the Wong-Baker values in 3rd day (p < 0.05). In soft tissue healing on the 3rd and 7th day, the nonepithelialized surface of the laser socket was smaller than that of the control group, and the measurement results were found to be statistically significant (p < 0.05).ConclusionAlthough LLLT was not found to be very effective in reducing postoperative discomfort after extraction of primary molars, it provided better wound healing in extraction sockets.

Accuracy of Extraoral Bitewing Compared with Histopathology in Proximal Caries Detection of Primary Molar Teeth

An accurate diagnosis of dental caries leads to a suitable treatment plan and prevents premature loss of primary teeth. Intraoral bitewing radiography helps caries determination but has limitations in pediatric patients with severe gag reflexes while the extraoral bitewing radiograph resolved the patients who refused to undergo intraoral radiographs. The research objective was to compare the accuracy of extraoral bitewing radiography and the gold standard histopathological examination for proximal caries detection in the primary molars. Twenty-four extracted primary molars with and without proximal caries were divided into three groups and arranged in the mimetic alveolar sockets of a 3D-printed skull and mandible. Two observers evaluated extraoral bitewing images separately twice at one-week intervals. The weighted kappa coefficients showed excellent intra-observer and inter-observer agreements between each session of the extraoral bitewing radiographic assessments. The Mann-Whitney U test showed no difference between the radiographic grading scores of extraoral bitewing images and the gold standard. The sensitivity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve in cavitated carious lesions were higher than in non-cavitated carious lesions. In conclusion, extraoral bitewing is an alternative radiography for pediatric patients who are either uncooperative or intolerant to intraoral radiography.

Comparative evaluation of hand and rotary file systems on dentinal microcrack formation during pulpectomy procedure in primary teeth: an in vitro study.

Pulpectomy can be used for the management of deep dentinal carious lesions in primary teeth which can be restored. Mechanical preparation of root canals can be performed using hand or NiTi rotary files. However, this may cause dentinal stress and consequently dentinal microcracks. Hence, the aim was comparative evaluation of hand and rotary file systems on dentinal microcrack formation during pulpectomy procedure in primary teeth. 60 extracted primary molar teeth were selected comprising of 80 root canals. Simple random sampling was used to divide root canals into four groups (n = 20): Group A-Hedstrom file, Group B-Pro AF Baby Gold rotary, Group C-ProTaper Next rotary, and Group D-unprepared group. Assessment was conducted on presence or absence of microcracks using Chi square test (p < 0.05). The total number of microcracks in Group A: one (5%), Group B: four (20%), Group C: nine (45%) and Group D: zero (0%) which was statistically significant (p = 0.002). At cervical third, the number of microcracks seen with Group A: one (5%), Group B: zero (0%), Group C: five (25%) and Group D: zero (0%) (p = 0.005). At the middle third, the number of microcracks seen in Group A: zero (0%), Group B: four (20%), Group C: four (20%) and Group D: zero (0%) (p = 0.029). The study concluded that dentinal microcracks are formed with both hand and rotary file systems in primary teeth. ProTaper Next showed significantly higher number of microcracks, followed by ProAF Baby Gold and H files.

Clinical observations of iRoot BP Plus in the restorative treatment of pulp floor perforation with root bifurcation lesions in primary molar teeth.

Clinical observations of iRoot BP Plus in the restorative treatment of pulp floor perforation with root bifurcation lesions in primary molar teeth.

Is it possible to extract primary maxillary molars without palatal injection?: a controlled clinical trial

ObjectivesThe absolute necessity of a palatal injection for the extraction of primary maxillary molars has never been explored, despite the fact that it is widely known that children do not tolerate local anesthetic injections into the palatal tissue well. The aim of this study was to compare separately the perception of pain in the absence of palatal injection after anesthesia and maxillary primary molar tooth extraction using different anesthetic solutions and different post-anesthetic waiting times.Materials and methodsA single-blinded randomized controlled study was conducted in 78 participants (26 patients with palatal anesthesia (the control groups), and 26 patients with 5 min and 26 patients with 8 min post-anesthetic waiting time without palatal anesthesia (the study groups)). Subjective experiences of pain were evaluated separately after anesthesia and tooth extraction using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and the Wong-Baker Faces Pain Rating Scale (WBS).ResultsIn terms of VAS scores obtained following administration of anesthesia, there was a statistically significant difference between the groups (p<0.05). VAS pain scores were reported to be lower in the groups without palatal anesthesia than in the groups with palatal anesthesia. No statistically significant difference was observed in VAS and Wong-Baker scores after tooth extraction between the groups with and without palatal anesthesia (P>0.05).ConclusionsWhile the pain reported following administration of anesthesia was found to be higher in the groups receiving palatal anesthesia, no difference was found between the groups in the pain reported after tooth extraction.Clinical relevanceExtraction of maxillary primary molars is possible without palatal injection by injecting 4% articaine or 2% lidocaine into the buccal vestibule of the tooth with a waiting time of 5 or 8 min.