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Pulpal status of human primary molars with coexisting caries and physiological root resorption
Author(s) -
Rajan Sadna,
Day Peter F.,
Christmas Clare,
Munyombwe Theresa,
Duggal Monty,
Rodd Helen D.
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
international journal of paediatric dentistry
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.183
H-Index - 62
eISSN - 1365-263X
pISSN - 0960-7439
DOI - 10.1111/ipd.12070
Subject(s) - medicine , molar , dentistry , resorption , pulp (tooth) , deciduous teeth , pathology
Aim This study sought to investigate the effect of caries, in association with physiological root resorption, on the pulpal status of human primary molars. Design Fifty‐three mandibular primary molars were obtained from children requiring extractions under general anaesthesia. Following extraction, teeth were split longitudinally and placed in Zamboni's fixative. Teeth were categorised according to i) the depth of caries (less than or greater than halfway through dentine thickness) and ii) the degree of physiological root resorption (<33%, 34–66% or >67% of the root length). Ten‐micrometre pulp sections were subject to indirect immunofluorescence using a combination of PGP 9.5 (a general neuronal marker), CD 45 (a general neuronal marker), and Ulex europaeus agglutinin I (a marker of vascular endothelium). Image analysis was used to determine the percentage area of staining ( PAS ) for innervation and immune cells. Results Marked differences were seen between different samples, but there were no significant differences in mean PAS for PGP 9.5 or CD 45 according to the degree of caries or extent of physiological root resorption (two‐way anova , P > 0.05). Conclusion Findings suggest that even if primary molars are undergoing exfoliation, they show comparable caries‐induced changes to teeth without physiological root resorption, thus retaining potential for healing and repair.