Formocresol versus calcium hydroxide direct pulp capping of human primary molars: two year follow-up.

Abstract

Clinical and radiographic evaluation of the premedicated direct pulp capping using formocresol (PDC) versus conventional direct pulp capping using calcium hydroxide (CDC) in human carious primary molars.A total of 120 vital primary molars with pinpoint exposure during caries removal in 84 patients aged 4-5 years were selected. In the PDC group (n = 60), 20% Buckley's formocresol solution, and in the CDC group (n = 60), calcium hydroxide powder were applied to the exposure sites followed by placement of zinc oxide-eugenol base. Teeth were restored with preformed stainless steel crowns. Clinical and radiographic evaluations of the treatment outcomes were performed at regular intervals of 6 and 12 months, respectively, for two years post-operatively.The prevalence of spontaneous pain, sensitivity on percussion, and fistula were significantly higher in the CDC group compared to the PDC group (P < 0.05). The number of teeth exhibiting periapical/furcal radiolucency or external/internal root resorption was also higher in the CDC group (P < 0.05). The clinical success rate of the PDC was 90% compared to the 61.7% of the CDC (P < 0.05). The radiographic success rates of the PDC and CDC groups were 85% and 53.3%, respectively (P < 0.05).It seems formocresol premedicated direct pulp capping could safely be used as a substitute for conventional direct pulp capping.