Pulp stones, prevalence and distribution in an Iranian population

Abstract

Aim: This study determined the prevalence and distribution of pulp stones in the permanent dentition of an adult population using their periapical radiographs. Materials and methods: The study followed a cross-sectional design. A total of 800 periapical radiographs collected from 412 patients attending dental clinics in Kerman, Islamic Republic of Iran, were examined using magnification. Results: Pulp stones were present in 9.6% of all permanent teeth examined, being most common in maxillary first and second molars, followed by mandibular first and second molars. They were present in 31.5% of all adult patients, with a significantly increased prevalence in females compared with males (40.5 vs 23.9%, chi-squared test p < 0.001). There was also an increased prevalence with age. Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, clinicians should expect to encounter pulp stones most commonly in the pulp chambers of maxillary first and second molars, particularly in older female patients. Clinical significance: Pulp stones depending on their size and location can pose challenges to endodontic treatment. They obstruct access to the canal orifices and thus complicate endodontic treatment. Knowing where and when pulp stones are likely to occur improves the quality of root canal treatments.