Pulpal response to MPC for capping exposures.

Abstract

This study has shown that pulp capping of traumatic exposures with Dycal will stimulate dentine formation, with complete bridging adjacent to the material in seven out of eight teeth 1 month later. The success rate at 3 months was similar, with regular dentine being formed under the initial irregular dentine barrier. Dentine bridging was not found 3 months after pulp capping with MPC, although some reparative dentine had been formed. The coronal pulp was usually partially necrotic and inflamed, although the extent of each was not related. Large amounts of MPC were found in the pulp at some distance from the exposure but were not necessarily associated with inflammation or necrosis. In view of the lack of bridge formation and the presence of inflammation and necrosis, these results do not support the manufacturer's claim that MPC is an effect preparation for capping exposed pulps. This study underlines the importance of biologic testing of new materials prior to commercial distribution, for what may appear similar may not produce the same therapeutic effect.