Abstract
Background: Pulpal damage or exposure from dental caries provides a channel for microbial contamination, potentially leading to endodontic pathology if untreated. Vital pulp therapy (VPT) represents a less invasive alternative, aiming at sustaining the health and functionality of the compromised pulp. This systematic review and meta-analysis explored the clinical outcomes of resin-based materials compared to traditional materials in VPT.
Methods: PRISMA guidelines were followed when conducting this systematic review, registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024552414). The PICO format framed the research question. Several databases were searched, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, Wiley Online Library, and SpringerLink (January 2014 to June 2024). The inclusion criteria were randomized control trials (RCTs) on VPT using resin-based materials in permanent teeth, while the exclusion criteria included non-RCTs, case reports, in vitro studies, and studies on primary teeth. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed using the RoB 2 tool. Meta-analysis was conducted with Jamovi 2.3.28 by employing the Sidik–Jonkman model based on standardized mean differences (SMD) due to the high heterogeneity of the included studies.
Results: From 2864 articles, six RCTs qualified under the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis of six studies revealed no significant overall effect (Tau2=0.1679) and a substantial level of heterogeneity (I2=73.35%).
Conclusion: Traditional materials (MTA and Biodentine) remain effective for VPT. New resin-based materials demonstrate promise but require further research to establish their long-term clinical efficacy. Future studies should aim to reduce heterogeneity and include longer follow-up periods to validate these findings.