Teaching pulpectomy in paediatric dentistry: A national cross‐sectional survey of dental schools in Brazil

Abstract

BackgroundPulpectomy is used to treat primary teeth with irreversibly inflamed or necrotic pulp tissue. There is, however, a lack of consensus on clinical protocols for teaching pulpectomy at dental schools.AimTo determine what faculty members at Brazilian dental schools are teaching about pulpectomy in primary teeth.DesignA cross‐sectional, observational study was conducted using a 39‐question survey available via the Google Forms® platform. A snowball sampling strategy was used for recruitment. Invitations to participate were sent via e‐mail, WhatsApp® and Instagram®. The data were analysed descriptively.ResultsA total of 177 (58.4%) responses were obtained. Most faculty members recommended the use of Kerr hand files (66.1%), and 1% sodium hypochlorite was the most common choice for the irrigating solution (35.3%). Iodoform pastes were the first choice of faculty members (41.6%), and 60.5% of the faculty members recommended composite resin as the definitive restoration.ConclusionSimilarities were found in the teaching of pulpectomy for primary teeth among faculty members at dental schools in Brazil.