Comparative evaluation of dual-cure resin (TheraCal PT) and Biodentine in coronal pulpotomy of patients with symptoms indicative of irreversible pulpitis: A randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Background: New and innovative materials are being marketed for the treatment of coronal pulpotomy. It is crucial to compare their efficacy with already-established materials. TheraCal PT (TP) is such a new material that studies are scarce. Aim: This study aim to compare and evaluate the outcome of coronal pulpotomy using Biodentine and a newly introduced calcium silicate-based dual-cure resin cement, TP, in patients with symptoms of irreversible pulpitis. Materials and Methods: Sixty patients with exposed carious pulp and symptomatic irreversible pulpitis were included, aged 18–40, randomly allocated to two groups: TP (group I) and Biodentine (group II). Coronal pulpotomy was performed following a standardized protocol, with TP or Biodentine applied accordingly. The pain was recorded using Visual Analog Scale preoperatively for up to 1 week. Success was assessed clinically and radiographically for up to 12 months. Statistical Analysis Used: The data were analyzed using the Friedman test and the Mann–Whitney U-test. Intragroup pain was analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Results: Among 60 patients, intervention was done in 53. By removing dropout patients, 47 were analyzed, with 38 available for follow-up at 3, 6, and 12 months. The Biodentine group exhibited a 12-month success rate of 84%, while the TP group revealed 77.3%, with statistically insignificant difference (P = 0.563). Conclusion: TP can be effectively utilized as a pulpotomy material in cases of symptomatic irreversible pulpitis in mature permanent teeth, offering rapid setting and ease of use, although Biodentine yielded slightly better results in this study.