Preliminary evaluation of sodium hypochlorite for pulpotomies in primary molars.

PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of 5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) to that of ferric sulfate (FeSO4) as a pulpotomy medicament in decayed primary molars. METHODS Healthy subjects between 4 and 9 years with at least 2 primary molars needing pulpotomy consented to receive either NaOCl or FeSO4 and restoration with IRM base/stainless steel crown in a prospective, randomized design. Clinical and radiographic signs/symptoms were recorded at 0, 6, and 12 months. RESULTS Twenty-three subjects were recruited. Six-month results are based on the first 32 teeth in the NaOCl group and 28 teeth in the FeSO4 group. Twelve-month results are based on 13 teeth in the FeSO4 group and 14 in the NaOCl group. Results show 100% restoration retention in both groups and no signs/symptoms of pain at 6 and 12 months. At 6 months, 100% clinical success was found with both FeSO4 and NaOCl. Radiographic success for FeSO4 was 68%, with internal resorption being the most common finding. The NaOCl group showed 91% radiographic success, P = .050. At 12 months, FeSO4 had 85% clinical success and 62% radiographic success. NaOCl had 100% clinical success and 79% radiographic success. CONCLUSION Preliminary evidence shows that NaOCl can be used successfully as a pulpotomy medicament.