Comparative Evaluation of Efficacy of Resin-modified Glass Ionomer Cement and Light-curable Tricalcium Silicate Cement as Indirect Pulp Capping Materials: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Abstract

Aim: The study aims to assess the long-term clinical outcomes and biocompatibility of resin-modified glass ionomer cement and light-curable tricalcium silicate cement in preserving pulp vitality and preventing further carious progression in deep carious lesions.

Materials and methods: A total of 46 participants with deep carious lesions and reversible pulpitis were selected and divided into two groups (n = 23): Group I was treated with resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC) and group II was treated with TheraCal LC (a light-curable tricalcium silicate cement). Once the indirect pulp capping (IPC) material was placed on the pulpal/axial walls, the cavity was temporized using intermediate restorative material, while the permanent restoration was done at 3rd-week recall period. Clinical and radiographic assessments were evaluated at intervals of 24 hours, 3 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months. Data were recorded and statistically analyzed.

Results: The mean visual analog scale (VAS) scores for the RMGIC group were 20.21, 12.90, 1.33, 0.00, and 0.00 at baseline, 24 hours, 3 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months, respectively, while the TheraCal LC group showed mean scores of 12.60, 5.95, 2.58, 1.50, and 0.00 at the same intervals. The Mann-Whitney U-test revealed no significant difference in VAS scores between the two groups at any time point (p > 0.05). Intragroup comparisons using the Friedman test indicated statistically significant reductions in VAS scores over time within both groups (p < 0.001). At the 6-month follow-up, there were no significant differences between the groups regarding pain on palpation, swelling, percussion, or mobility (p > 0.05 for all comparisons using the Chi-square test). All teeth in the RMGIC group remained vital at the end of the study, while the vitality rate in the TheraCal LC group was 81%.

Conclusion: The study concluded that both RMGIC and TheraCal LC are effective as IPC materials for deep carious lesions with reversible pulpitis, though RMGIC showed a slight advantage in maintaining pulp vitality, reducing symptoms, and minimizing periapical changes over time.

Clinical significance: The clinical significance of this study is to offer evidence-based guidance for dental practitioners in choosing suitable materials for IPC in cases of deep carious lesions with reversible pulpitis. This research aims to support clinicians in making informed decisions that promote optimal patient care and improve the success and longevity of restorative treatments. How to cite this article: Deshmukh SN, Shenoy VU, Margasahayam SV, et al. Comparative Evaluation of Efficacy of Resin-modified Glass Ionomer Cement and Light-curable Tricalcium Silicate Cement as Indirect Pulp Capping Materials: A Randomized Clinical Trial. J Contemp Dent Pract 2024;25(12):1141-1147.