Comparing indirect and direct pulp capping for deep caries in molars

Comparative Evaluation of Indirect and Direct Pulp Capping After Partial or Complete Caries Removal in Deeply Carious Mature Permanent Mandibular Molars With Moderate Pulpitis: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Not applicable Interventional Postgraduate Institute of Dental Sciences Rohtak · NCT06433297

This study is testing whether two different ways of treating deep cavities in back teeth can help them heal better and cause less pain.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment106 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorPostgraduate Institute of Dental Sciences Rohtak Academic / other
Locations1 site (Rohtak, Haryana)
Trial IDNCT06433297 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of indirect versus direct pulp capping techniques in treating deeply carious mandibular molars showing signs of moderate pulpitis. Participants will undergo either partial or complete caries removal followed by the respective pulp capping method. The study will assess both clinical and radiographic outcomes, as well as pain incidence and severity post-treatment. The goal is to determine which method provides better healing outcomes for the affected teeth.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with restorable mature mandibular molars exhibiting deep caries and moderate pulpitis.

Not a fit: Patients with immature roots, signs of pulpal necrosis, or those who have had recent analgesic or antibiotic treatments may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could improve treatment options for patients with deep caries and moderate pulpitis, potentially preserving tooth vitality.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar pulp capping techniques, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. The patient should be ≥18 years of age.
2. Restorable mature permanent 1st and 2nd Mandibular molars with deep caries (reaching inner quarter of dentine)
3. Tooth should give positive response to pulp sensibility testing.
4. Clinical diagnosis of moderate pulpitis.
5. Radiographic finding of periapical index (PAI) score ≤2.
6. Healthy periodontium (probing pocket depth ≤3 mm and mobility within normal limit).
7. Pulp exposure after complete caries excavation.
8. No pulp exposure after incomplete caries excavation

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Teeth with immature roots.
2. Pulp exposure after incomplete caries excavation.
3. No pulp exposure after complete caries excavation.
4. Bleeding could not be controlled in 5 minutes.
5. Signs of pulpal necrosis, sinus tract, swelling, insufficient bleeding after pulp exposure.
6. History of analgesic intake in previous 1 week, or antibiotic intake in 1 month.
7. Internal/external resorption.
8. Contributory medical history (alcoholism, smokers, diabetic, hypertension, drug dependency, Heart or valve disease, hepatitis, herpes, immunodeficiency (HIV), infectious diseases, kidney or liver, migraine)

Where this trial is running

Rohtak, Haryana

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Indirect Pulp CappingReversible Pulpitisindirect pulp cappingselective caries removalmoderate pulpitisdirect pulp cappingdeep cariescomplete caries removal
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.