Intentional Pulpotomy to Preserve Hopeless Molars

Inclusion Criteria: * Selected patients will have one or more primary molar teeth diagnosed clinically with large proximal carious lesions with the gingival extension of the cavity at or below the cemento-enamel junction. The tooth should be asymptomatic and must have no signs of swelling, fistula, abnormal mobility and sensitivity to percussion (ruling out food impaction), and adequate space for placement of a stainless steel crown restoration. The pre-operative periapical radiograph, taken as part of the new patient/recall routine visit, should reveal a lesion in close approximation to the pulp, but having at least 1-2 mm of sound dentin separating the deepest portion of the lesion and the pulp. In addition, no evidence of furcation and periapical pathology, internal or external root resorption and presence of half to two-thirds of root length remaining. Exclusion Criteria: * Uncooperative patients * Teeth with positive history of pain, abnormal mobility, signs of pulp necrosis such as presence of swelling or fistula, and significant space loss due to caries not allowing placement of a stainless steel crown restoration * Radiographically, signs of furcation and periapical pathology, internal and external resorption, less than half to 2/3 of root length remaining * Selected patients will be treated by pediatric dental residents in the regular dental clinic setting with or without nitrous oxide inhalation, as part of the standard of care * Prior to the beginning of the stu…