(PR161) Vital Pulp Therapy in Educational Settings: A Retrospective Analysis (2013–2024)

Objective: Vital pulp therapy (VPT) has emerged as an effective treatment for specific pulpal pathologies. This study aims to analyze VPT treatments conducted in pre-doctoral and post-doctoral educational programs from 2013 to 2024, focusing on procedural prevalence, materials used, follow-up rates, and patient demographics to identify areas for educational improvement and enhanced clinical outcomes.

Methods: This retrospective analysis reviewed 281 cases with dental codes of therapeutic pulpotomy, partial pulpotomy, and direct pulp cap from 2013-2024. VPT treatments demonstrated a balanced distribution across gender (M: 22, F: 24) and spanned a diverse age range. 79 cases of VPT performed on patients aged 6 to 72 years, with an average age of 14 years. Treatments included full pulpotomy (36 cases), partial pulpotomy (11 cases), and direct pulp capping (32 cases). Materials utilized included calcium hydroxide, mineral trioxide aggregate, Biodentine, and BC putty, with BC Putty being the most frequently used material (33 cases). Specific follow-up care was recorded for 36 cases, with an average follow-up period of 15.8 months and a follow-up rate of 58%. Of these 36 cases, there was an 83% success rate.

Conclusion: This study underscores the growing adoption of VPT in educational settings and highlights the need for enhanced follow-up protocols to ensure optimal patient outcomes. The broad patient demographic and procedural diversity reflect the clinical relevance of VPT, reinforcing its significance in endodontic education.