The effect of sodium hypochlorite application on the success of calcium hydroxide pulpotomy in primary teeth

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of 3% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) used as a hemostatic agent on the outcome of calcium hydroxide pulpotomies of primary teeth. Study design: A total of 18 primary molars with advanced caries and root resorption of approximately half the root length were randomly placed into 2 groups. Conventional calcium hydroxide pulpotomies were performed on teeth in both groups; however, a cotton pellet saturated with 3% sodium hypochlorite was applied to teeth in the treatment group for 30 seconds before the pulpotomy to control hemorrhage. After the extraction of the teeth, they were examined histologically. Results: In the histologic evaluation it was found that none of the specimens in the control group showed necrosis and 1 specimen in the treatment group showed partial necrosis. Conclusion: It was found that the use of 3% NaOCl as a hemostatic agent had no effect on the outcome of calcium hydroxide pulpotomies with the given concentration and timing of the NaOCl treatment and the given observation period. © 2006 Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.