Does bidirectional splinting improve outcomes in cracked teeth with reversible pulpitis?

Abstract

Aim To investigate the success rate of 'bidirectional' splinting - both internal and external - of teeth with longitudinal cracks and reversible pulpitis, as well as to identify any signs or symptoms that could give a prognostic indication of success.

Design Cohort study.

Cohort selection Thirty-four teeth from 33 patients visiting the Department of Conservative Dentistry at the Yonsei University Dental Hospital, Seoul, South Korea, between June 2016 and November 2017, diagnosed with longitudinal cracked teeth with reversible pulpitis. Teeth with signs of pulp necrosis, irreversible pulpitis or other types of longitudinal cracks were excluded.

Data analysis These teeth were treated by a systematic protocol of initial external splinting with a metal band, crack removal and internal splinting with composite resin, placement of a temporary crown, before a final permanent crown. Symptoms and vitality were assessed at every stage and root canal treatment provided where deemed necessary. The teeth were then followed up for up to four years to assess tooth survival and pulp vitality.

Results Accounting for five dropouts during the treatment protocol, 29 teeth reached at least a one-year recall. Of these, 21 (72%) had pulp survival, eight (28%) had required root canal treatment - six of those before final crown cementation - and zero teeth required extraction (100% survival rate). Cracked teeth without initial tenderness to percussion showed a 94% pulp survival rate, while those with tenderness had only a 46% pulp survival rate.

Conclusions A systematic approach to treating cracked teeth with reversible pulpitis should be utilised to maintain tooth vitality and survival. Using a bidirectional splinting method provides good outcomes for these teeth. Tenderness to percussion is a significant prognostic indicator of pulp vitality and whether root canal treatment should be initiated.