Aim: To evaluate the clinical and radiographic success rates of indirect and direct pulp capping in primary molars with reversible pulpitis using a light-cured tri-calcium silicate-based material.
Methods: A total of 40 primary molars with deep dentin caries and signs of reversible pulpitis in healthy cooperative children aged between 4-7 years were randomly allocated to two parallel groups. The first group received indirect pulp capping using partial caries removal, while the second group received direct pulp capping using complete caries removal. TheraCal (LC) was the capping material in both groups. Teeth were assessed clinically and radiographically at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. The data was statistically analyzed using Fisher's exact test for intergroup comparisons and Cochran's Q test followed by multiple pairwise comparisons utilizing multiple McNemar's tests . The significance level was set at p ≤ 0.05.
Results: According to the intention to treat analysis, the clinical success rates for IPC were 90% and 85% at 3, and 12 months, respectively. DPC showed 90% clinical success rate at 3 months and 70% at 12 months. Whereas the radiographic success rate for IPC was 90% at 3 months and 85% at 12 months. While the radiographic success rate for DPC was 95% in the first 3 months and 70% after 12 months. There were no significant differences in clinical and radiographic success rates of IPC and DPC at all follow-up intervals (p > 0.05).
Conclusion: Both IPC and DPC can be reliable treatment options in primary molars.