Impact of pulpectomy versus tooth extraction in children's oral health-related quality of life: A randomized clinical trial

Author(s)

Abanto, Jenny ; Tsakos, Georgios ; Olegario, Isabel Cristina ; Paiva, Saul Martins ; Mendes, Fausto Medeiros ; Ardenghi, Thiago Machado ; Bonecker, Marcelo

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: COMMUNITY DENTISTRY AND ORAL EPIDEMIOLOGY; v. N/A, p. 11-pg., 2023-07-30.

Abstract

AimThe aim of this randomized clinical trial was to compare the impact of two management options for primary molars with pulp necrosis (pulpectomy or extraction) on children's oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL). DesignA total of 100 children aged 3-5 years with at least one necrotic primary molar were selected and randomized into the study groups. The Brazilian version of early childhood oral health impact scale (B-ECOHIS) was completed by the parent proxy reports at baseline and after 4, 8 and 12 months. Differences between the trial groups were assessed through bootstrap linear regression for B-ECOHIS scores, logistic regression for dental pain self-reports and anxiety scores (& alpha; = 5%). ResultsThe mean (SD) B-ECOHIS scores at baseline and after 12 months were 17.7 (6.5) and 3.0 (4.0) in the pulpectomy group and 18.8 (7.7) and 7.9 (7.7) in the extraction group. Both treatments significantly improved OHRQoL, but tooth extraction group showed higher scores in total B-ECOHIS (p < .001) and most domains, indicating lower OHRQoL. Furthermore, higher anxiety levels were reported for dental extraction compared to pulpectomy (OR = 2.52; p = .008). ConclusionPulpectomy resulted in an improved OHRQoL scores after 12 months when compared to tooth extraction and should be considered as the treatment of choice for necrotic primary molars. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 13/10330-8 - CONSERVATIVE VERSUS NON-CONSERVATIVE TREATMENT FOR SEVERE DENTAL CARIES IN PRESCHOOL CHILDREN AND ITS IMPACT ON ORAL HEALTH-RELATED QUALITY OF LIFE, ANTHROPOMETRIC MEASURES, SPACE LOSS AND ANXIETY: RANDOMIZED CLINICAL TRIAL
• Grantee: Jenny Haydee Abanto Alvarez
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral