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Of 123 teeth treated by direct pulp capping 110 could be rechecked clinically and radiographically after periods of 1 1/2 to 7 years, 4 on the average. In 25 cases a change in endodontic treatment has been recorded on the files: In 18 cases biopulpectomy was performed for symptomatic (pain) reasons considered as failure of the capping treatment; in 5 cases biopulpectomy was indicated for periodontal and prosthetic reasons (not considered as failure); in 5 cases of the 110 rechecked necrosis and periapical involvement was diagnosed. The rate of failure thus was 22 cases or 17%. This relatively high ratio of unfavorable results (Tab. VII) is in part due to lack of operative skill of the students while progressing tooth morbidity statistically established in the Genevan population also was taken into account. Advancing tooth ages according to graph figure 6 in accordance with other recent surveys were found to constitute no impediment for direct pulp capping. The success of this endodontic treatment is best ascertained by observing a strict selection of the case and the observance of an exacting operative procedure, namely: - Only accidentally exposed pulps without symptoms of previous spontaneous pain (Category I) are liable to successful conservation by direct pulp capping using calcium hydroxide. Previously painful pulps (Category II) according to Table VIII are either indirectly capped using corticosteroids particularly in young teeth or after exposure subject to coronal or radicular pulpotomy (Category III). Rigorous aseptical procedure and lasting hermetical sealing of the calcium hydroxide pulp dressing are additional prerequisites for success.

A biological model for evaluating pulpo-dentinal capping materials is described. The model uses cultures of human pulp cells which are explanted to form cell monolayers. Four products already tested in vivo on teeth subsequently extracted for orthodontic reasons were laid directly over these cultures and observed after 7, 14, 21 and 28 days, corresponded to the in vivo test periods. The growth and morphology of the cells were similar for both test systems, indicating comparability between the two biological models as well as the validity of the developed in vitro method. A preliminary scale of biological activity is proposed which could be useful for preliminary screening of materials.

Appropriate definitions, history and success rates of direct pulp capping procedures are reviewed. Two of the disadvantages of this form of treatment are infection of the pulp, either preoperatively or postoperatively due to a non-sterile procedure or bacterial leakage at the capping site. Past results of directly capping potential inflamed pulps have been unsatisfactory, but now an increasing number of endodontists advocate capping when conditions are favourable. Direct capping should only be used on vital pulp which has been accidentally injured and shows no other symptoms. Direct capping with calcium hydroxide should not be used on pulp which has been exposed as a result of penetrating caries. Clinical studies 2338 cases have shown that the risk of failure is increased if the pulp is diseased before capping, but that the age of the tooth does not have an adverse effect. It also appears that capping performed by skilled practitioners is more successful than that performed by students. The results of a re-examination of 110 patients, a minimum of 4 years after they had received direct capping treatment from students, showed a success rate of 80 per cent. In skilled hands, the success rate for direct capping with calcium hydroxide is now 90 per cent provided that a hermetic seal is obtained.