Pulpectomies in primary mandibular molars: a comparison of outcomes using three root filling materials.

AIM: To evaluate the outcome of root canal treatment in primary teeth using three root canal filling materials - RC Fill, Vitapex and Pulpdent root canal sealer. METHODOLOGY: The study was a single-centre, double-blind, randomized controlled trial carried out on 129 primary mandibular molars with necrotic pulps or irreversible pulpitis in 4- to 9-year-old children. Participants were selected based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria and were randomly allocated into 3 groups: Group I - RC Fill [zinc oxide-eugenol (ZOE) with iodoform]; Group II - Vitapex (calcium hydroxide with iodoform); and Group III - Pulpdent root canal sealer (ZOE). The outcome measures were evaluated both clinically and radiographically at 6, 12 and 30 months according to modified American Association of Endodontists (AAE) criteria. The radiographic outcomes were assessed by two blinded and calibrated evaluators. Pearson's chi-square analysis was performed for both intention-to-treat (ITT) and per-protocol population. RESULT: The success rates of RC Fill, Vitapex and Pulpdent were 94%, 90% and 97%, respectively, at 30 months and the differences were not significant (P = 0.137). CONCLUSION: All three materials were found to be equally effective root filling materials for primary molars with necrotic pulps and irreversible pulpitis at 30 months. However, long-term follow-up until the eruption of the permanent successor teeth is needed for more definitive assessments.

A new and simple infant assessment table.

Oral examination of an infant forms an important first step toward a lifetime of excellent oral health. Examining an infant during the first visit and the subsequent preventive examination visits may be challenging to dentists and pediatric dentists. There are few concerns regarding the effective oral examination using the traditional "knee-to-knee" position. This paper presents a new, simple infant examination table (INFANTT) to facilitate this examination. This table has many advantages, which includes its stability and simplicity. It is non-threatening and resembles common household furniture. Various modifications of the basic design are also possible to suit the individual dentist's preferences and dental office needs. Additionally, it is possible to use this INFANTT for performing fluoride varnish applications, taking radiographs of the anterior teeth and extraction of natal, neonatal teeth and traumatized teeth.