Retrospective Evaluation of Biodentine Pulpotomy Outcomes in Primary Molars: A Clinical and Radiographic Perspective

Abstract

Background: Preservation of the vitality of primary molar teeth affected by deep caries remains a central goal in pediatric restorative dentistry. Conventional pulpotomy medicaments such as formocresol have raised concerns regarding cytotoxicity and systemic distribution. Biodentine™, a bioactive tricalcium silicate-based material, has recently gained attention as a biocompatible alternative with favorable handling and sealing characteristics.

Objective: To retrospectively assess the clinical and radiographic success of Biodentine™ used in pulpotomy procedures in children treated at a tertiary dental center.

Methods: Dental records of 120 pediatric patients (aged 4–11 years) who underwent pulpotomy using Biodentine™ between January 2022 and December 2023 were reviewed. Clinical outcomes were evaluated in terms of absence of pain, swelling, sinus formation, or pathologic mobility. Radiographic success was defined by the absence of periapical or furcal radiolucency and internal or external resorption. Follow-up data at three months were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.
Results: Among 120 treated teeth, 114 (95.0%) exhibited clinical success and 111 (92.5%) demonstrated radiographic success at the three-month review. No statistically significant association was found between age or gender and treatment outcome (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: Biodentine™ appears to be a reliable pulpotomy material in primary molars, offering high short-term clinical and radiographic success. Its favorable biological profile and ease of manipulation make it a viable substitute for formocresol in pediatric endodontics.