Fracture Resistance of Primary Molars After Pulpotomy Procedure Using Mineral Trioxide Aggregate or Biodentine

Abstract

Abstract Objectives The aim of this study was to examine the effect of different tricalcium silicate materials on the fracture resistance of pulpotomized primary molar teeth with class II mesio-occluso-distal cavities. Materials and Methods Seventy-five extracted mandibular primary molars were used in this study. The teeth were randomly divided into 5 groups (n = 15 for each group). In group 1, the teeth were left unprepared and unfilled (negative control); in group 2, pulpotomy cavities were performed, but left unfilled (positive control); in Group 3, mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) and glass ionomer cement (GIC) was applied; in Group 4, Biodentin and GIC; and in Group 5, zinc oxide eugenol paste and GIC was placed in the pulp chamber. Then, cavities were restored with composite filling material. The teeth in all groups were subjected to thermocycling for 5000 cycles at 5°C–55°C. Each specimen was then subjected to fracture testing using a universal testing machine. The force required to fracture each specimen was recorded, and the data were analyzed statistically. Results Fracture resistance values obtained were as follows: Group1 > Group 4 > Group 3 = Group 5 > Group 2, (p < 0.05). The most common type of fracture was restorable in all experimental groups (p < 0.05). Conclusion Biodentine can be used as a suitable base material against fracture in teeth undergoing pulpotomy. Clinical Relevance The type of the base material used during the pulpotomy procedure may affect the fracture resistance of primary molar teeth.