Both resin-modified glass ionomer cement and light-curable tricalcium silicate cement effectively preserve pulp vitality in deep carious lesions, with RMGIC showing a slight advantage in long-term pulp health.
In a randomized clinical trial comparing two widely used dental materials—resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC) and light-curable tricalcium silicate cement (TheraCal LC)—for indirect pulp capping (IPC) in deep carious lesions, both materials effectively alleviated pain and preserved pulp vitality, with RMGIC showing a slight advantage in long-term outcomes.
The study enrolled 46 patients suffering from deep carious lesions accompanied by reversible pulpitis. Participants were randomized to two groups: one treated with RMGIC and the other with TheraCal LC. After applying the IPC material on the pulpal and axial walls, cavities were temporarily restored with an intermediate restorative material. Permanent restorations were placed at a 3-week follow-up appointment. Clinical and radiographic assessments were executed at multiple intervals: 24 hours, 3 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months post-treatment.
Pain intensity was estimated via the visual analog scale (VAS), alongside evaluations of swelling, percussion sensitivity, tooth mobility, and pulp vitality. Results showed a prominent reduction in pain in both groups over time. The RMGIC group’s mean VAS scores dropped from 20.21 at baseline to zero by 3 months and remained pain-free at 6 months. Similarly, the TheraCal LC group’s scores dropped from 12.60 at baseline to zero by the 6-month mark.
At any time point, statistical analysis confirmed no vital difference in pain alleviation between the two groups. Regarding pulp vitality, all teeth treated with RMGIC maintained vitality after 6 months, while the TheraCal LC group showed a slightly lower vitality rate of 81%. No profound differences were noted between the groups for other clinical parameters such as swelling, pain on palpation, percussion sensitivity, or tooth mobility at the study’s conclusion.
Thus, both RMGIC and TheraCal LC proved valuable IPC materials for tackling deep carious lesions with reversible pulpitis. However, RMGIC illustrated a modest but meaningful advantage in maintaining pulp health and minimizing periapical changes over the long term. This research provides valuable, evidence-based guidance for dental professionals, helping them make informed decisions when selecting IPC materials to boost treatment success, preserve pulp vitality, and enhance patient outcomes in conservative dentistry.
The Journal of Contemporary Dental Practice
Comparative Evaluation of Efficacy of Resin-modified Glass Ionomer Cement and Light-curable Tricalcium Silicate Cement as Indirect Pulp Capping Materials: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Shreyal N Deshmukh et al.
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