Evaluation of Clinical and Radiographic Success of Vital Pulp Therapy Using Calcium Enriched Mixture (CEM): A Case Report

Abstract

Dentists always prioritize the preservation of the dental pulp. Nowadays, minimally invasive endodontic techniques such as Vital Pulp Therapy (VPT) are considered due to their affordability and remarkable success compared to conventional treatments such as Root Canal Treatment (RCT). VPT aims at preserving healthy portions of the exposed pulp while removing the inflamed parts with biocompatible materials to seal the pulp.The present case report aimed to describe a successful VPT of a right mandibular permanent first molar with reversible pulpitis using Calcium Enriched Mixture (CEM) cement in an 18-year-old female patient. As pulp exposure happened regarding extensive caries removal, 2 mm of the inflamed pulp was removed and replaced with CEM cement. CEM was covered with Resin-modified glass ionomers (RMGI) and the tooth was restored with amalgam. Regular follow-ups were performed at 3 and 6 months and 1, 2, and 4 years after treatment.Conclusion: The tooth was clinically and radiographically functional without signs and symptoms of infection or inflammation. The result of this case suggests that pinpoint pulp exposure during deep caries excavation can be successfully treated with VPT using CEM cement.

Keywords

• vital pulp therapy
• permanent dentition
• partial pulpotomy
• pulp exposure