Overview

This prospective controlled clinical trial investigates whether metabolic biomarkers measured in pulpal blood at the time of carious pulp exposure can predict the 12-month outcomes of vital pulp treatment in symptomatic permanent teeth. Eligible patients aged 16-50 years presenting with deep carious pulp exposure will undergo vital pulp therapy (partial pulpotomy or full pulpotomy). Pulpal blood samples will be collected at the time of exposure and analyzed using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Treatment outcomes will be assessed clinically and radiographically at 12 months. The study aims to identify objective, measurable biomarkers that can improve pulpal diagnosis and guide clinical decision-making in vital pulp therapy.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age range of 16-50 years.
2. Pulp exposure during treatment of deep caries.
3. Absence of periodontitis or systemic disease.
4. Only one or two proximal surfaces lost with remaining walls \> 2 mm; and
5. Good compliance and signed informed consent forms.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Patients who meet any of the following criteria will be excluded:
2. Teeth with unrestorable large defects or the need for RCT for aesthetic reasons;
3. Teeth with a negative response to cold testing
4. Current pregnancy or breastfeeding;
5. Poor compliance or inability to complete the trial.
6. The use of medications, including antibiotics, bisphosphonates, or statins, within 3 weeks before the study.
7. Inadequate blood sample collection after pulpal exposure.