The use of dental pulp tests in children with dental trauma: A national survey of the british society of paediatric dentistry’s members

Abstract

Background Careful long-term monitoring of pulp vitality has been recommended by all dental trauma guidelines. It is essential to explore the methods and techniques used by UK dental practitioners in assessing pulp sensibility and vitality. Aim To study the use of dental pulp tests by paediatric dentists and general dental practitioners in children with dental trauma to permanent teeth. Design A cross-sectional study utilising an 18 item questionnaire that was developed using the Bristol Online Survey (BOS) tool and circulated electronically to the members of the British Society of Paediatric Dentistry between June and August 2017. Results One hundred and forty-one respondents were included in the analysis, paediatric dental specialists (56%) and GDPs (44%). Almost all specialists (93.7%) reported using sensibility tests routinely in comparison to 80.6% of GDPs. Child perception and cooperation were the most commonly reported barriers. GDPs mainly used cold testing, while specialists used cold and electric pulp tests equally. Due to inconsistencies in recording, as well as documentation, the results varied among respondents. Only a few specialists reported having some experience in using laser doppler flowmetry. Conclusions The use of pulp sensibility tests was relatively high among respondents while those of vitality tests were very low. Barriers and inconsistencies in the technique and recording of the results of sensibility tests were evident. The frequency and timing of using sensibility tests in line with international guidelines were stressed. The use of standardised techniques involving methods considered to improve reliability was highlighted.