In vivo outcomes of Indirect Pulp Treatment using a Self-etching Primer versus Calcium Hydroxide over the Demineralized Dentin in Primary Molars

Objective: To evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcomes (24 months) of indirect pulp treatment (IPT) in primary teeth when a self-etching primer or a calcium hydroxide layer was used over the remaining carious dentin. Study design: Primary molar teeth with deep carious lesions without signs and symptoms of irreversible pulpitis were divided into two groups, according to the capping material: Experimental group (1): self-etching adhesive system (Clearfill SE Bond); and Control group (2): calcium hydroxide liner (Dycal). Both groups were followed up after application of a resin restoration (3M - Z250). Results: After 2 years of clinical and radiographic follow-up, no statistical difference was found between groups (p=1). The overall success rate reached 87%. Conclusion: These results demonstrate that IPT has a high clinical and radiographic performance in primary teeth and is not dependent on the capping material used over the demineralized dentin.