Radiographic changes in root maturation of immature dog premolars after direct pulp capping with Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) : A randomized controlled trial

Background: Direct pulp capping (DPC) is the preferred management for small pulp exposures to maintain pulp vitality, thereby delaying or preventing non vital pulp therapy in an immature permanent tooth with an open apex. Objectives and Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of MTA when used as a DPC material on root maturation. Materials and Methods: A randomized controlled trial with a total number 24 premolars of 2 mongrel dogs were involved in the experiment. Each dog received an intramuscular injection of chlorpromazine hydrochloride at a dosage of 1 mg/kg as premedication. followed by the administration of general anesthesia via intravenous injection of a 2.5% thiopental sodium solution. After general anesthesia was established a periapical radiograph was taken for the targeted teeth using paralleling technique. Then direct pulp capping with MTA was done to 12 premolars and the other twelve were used as a passive control. Based on AI dental clinic software (version7; woodpecker,Golin, China), the Radiographic measurements included the following parameters: Root length (RL): a straight line from the CEJ to the apical foramen and the apical foramen width (AFW). Results: After 3 months , the difference in apical foramen diameter was greater in the MTA group which indicates the greater increase in root dentin thickness, while there was no statistically significant difference in the increase in root length between the two groups. Conclusion: MTA is an effective direct pulp capping material in immature young permanent teeth hence it stimulates root maturation and apical foramen closure.