Efficacy of Laser Pulpotomy vs. Conventional Vital Pulpotomy in Primary Teeth: A Comparative Clinical Analysis.

Background/Objectives: Vital pulpotomy involves the partial removal of the coronal pulp tissue in cases of vital pulp exposure, aiming to maintain the health and function of the remaining radicular pulp. The first aim of this study was to compare the effects of two different methodological approaches towards vital pulpotomy of the primary teeth-conventional and laser pulpotomy; thereafter, the aim was to perform a comparison of the effects of the application of calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) versus mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA); then, we analyzed and compared clinical and radiographic changes in pulpotomized teeth over a defined time period; finally, we determined the degree of efficiency of different methods of vital pulpotomy of the primary teeth. Methods: This study analyzed 40 primary molars, 20 teeth treated with conventional pulpotomy and 20 teeth submitted to laser pulpotomy. Additionally, two pulpotomy agents-Ca(OH)2 and MTA-were used. The following clinical parameters were examined: pain, percussion sensitivity, swelling, sinus tract presence and pathological mobility. Absence of apical radiolucency, external and internal root resorption, and periodontal ligament widening were key radiographic parameters of the success of the endodontic therapy. Results: The results showed that there was no statistically significant difference between the two pulpotomy agents-Ca(OH)2 and MTA-and therefore both can be used as alternative pulpotomy agents in the primary teeth. Conclusions: The success rate of pulpotomy with Ca(OH)2 is similar to that of pulpotomy with MTA. The combination of laser pulpotomy and the use of MTA gave the best results according to all clinical and radiographic criteria examined and in all analyzed periods.