Ca(OH)2 pulpotomy in primary teeth. Part I: internal resorption as a complication following pulpotomy.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to analyze the outcomes of Ca(OH)(2) pulpotomies, to investigate the incidence of internal resorption following pulpotomy, and to investigate the relationship between internal resorption and physiological root resorption.

STUDY

DESIGN

Pulpotomies were performed in 84 primary molars. Teeth were grouped according to type of exposure (mechanical or carious) and according to whether or not physiological root resorption has started. All teeth were followed for 12 months.

RESULTS

Teeth with larger-than-pinpoint carious exposure had the lowest success rate (65.5%). Internal resorption accounted for 15 out of 17 failures (88.2%). There was no significant difference in the rate of internal resorption between teeth with and without physiological root resorption (19.6% and 15.8%, respectively; P > .05).

CONCLUSION

The greater the area of carious exposure, the lower the success rate in pulpotomies. Internal resorption was the main reason for failure; however, internal resorption was not affected by physiological root resorption.