Clinical Radiographic and Histological Evaluation of Zinc Bioactive Glass as a Pulpotomy Medicament in Primary Molar Teeth: An In Vivo Study.

Abstract

Background: In the past 20 years, research into pulpotomy materials has transitioned into the "biological era," marked by the emergence of innovative dental materials such as bioactive glass, which are bio-inductive and supportive of regeneration. This evolution represents significant advancements in dentistry.

Aim: To evaluate the clinical, radiographic, and histological success rate of zinc (Zn) bioactive glass as a pulpotomy medicament for primary molars.

Patients and methods: A total sample size of 40 primary molars was selected from 36 children aged 6-9 years. A regular conventional pulpotomy procedure was followed by the placement of Zn bioactive glass over the radicular orifice. The pulp chamber was filled with reinforced zinc oxide eugenol (ZOE). Patient recall was scheduled at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, respectively. Further evaluation was done by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Data were tabulated and subjected to statistical analysis.

Results: The present study shows 100, 97.44, 94.74, and 94.74% clinical success at the end of 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, respectively. The radiographic success was 100, 94.87, 92.11, and 92.11% at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, respectively. SEM analysis showed a well-defined dentinal bridge formation between Zn bioactive glass and the pulp chamber.

Conclusion: Quite promising clinical, radiographic, and histological results of Zn bioactive glass in the present study show its potential as an additional pulpotomy medicament to the presently existing pulpotomy agents.

How to cite this article: Reddy VN, Reddy D, Snehitha K, et al. Clinical Radiographic and Histological Evaluation of Zinc Bioactive Glass as a Pulpotomy Medicament in Primary Molar Teeth: An In Vivo Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2025;18(1):34-39.