J Endod. 2023 Oct 13:S0099-2399(23)00648-9. doi: 10.1016/j.joen.2023.10.003. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: The efficacy and safety of a single novel electronic pulp sensitivity tester with a transilluminator (PSTT) capable of providing four different tests was compared with gold standard (GS) pulp testing methods.
METHODS: Four hundred eighty teeth, including three from each quadrant and their contralateral and opposing teeth, were randomly assessed using PSTT or GS methods. Seven days later, the same teeth were assessed using the method not used earlier, so that all teeth were evaluated using both methods. Sixty previously root canal treated teeth, serving as negative controls, were assessed identically to the experimental groups. Results were analyzed using IBM SPSS (p<.05).
RESULTS: A higher percentage of teeth responded to cold and electricity using GS methods compared to PSTT (99.4 vs. 93.1, and 99.6 vs. 97.3, respectively). A lower percentage of teeth responded to heat using the GS method compared to PSTT (50.0 vs. 68.1). Chi-square tests determined differences in the proportion of sensitivity to temperature and electric testing methods were statistically significant (p<.001 and p=.004, respectively). No difference in proportion of sensitivity was observed for transillumination. Wilcoxon Sign-Rank test determined significantly shorter cold testing times using the GS method (p=.024). Shorter testing times were observed using the PSTT for heat (p<.001), EPT (p=.048), and transillumination (p=.001). Overall PSTT testing time was significantly shorter than GS testing time (p=.03). Tissue injury was not observed.
CONCLUSIONS: The PSTT efficiently and safely provided heat and transillumination for pulpal diagnosis. Improvements are needed to enhance the cold and electric stimulus efficacy.
PMID:37839772 | DOI:10.1016/j.joen.2023.10.003
