Vital pulp therapy in dogs maintains an 80% success rate independent of patient age: a 25-year retrospective study.

Abstract

Objective: To reassess the success rate of vital pulp therapy (VPT) in dogs and evaluate the impact of patient age and pulp exposure duration on outcomes.

Methods: The University of Wisconsin Veterinary Care medical records database was searched for dogs undergoing VPT from January 2000. Patient age, pulp exposure duration, and other variables were recorded. Radiographs taken before, immediately after, and at the last follow-up were evaluated. Outcomes were categorized as successful, having no evidence of failure, or failure.

Results: Of 219 VPT cases, 48 dogs with 79 teeth met the inclusion criteria. The VPT success rate was 80% (63 of 79). No significant correlation was found between age and success. Longer exposure (> 24 hours) was linked to longer time to failure, while shorter exposure (< 24 hours) had a shorter time to failure, compared to immediate treatment. Deep penetration of pulp dressing significantly increased failure odds.

Conclusions: VPT remains a viable alternative to root canal therapy for managing pulp exposure in dogs, with an 80% success rate. While age and exposure duration did not significantly impact outcomes, pulp dressing depth and treatment indication (eg, malocclusion vs complicated crown fracture) did.

Clinical relevance: This study updates the success rate of VPT in dogs and examines factors influencing outcomes with current standards. Potential advancements in biomaterials and regenerative endodontics to improve future success are also discussed.