Biologic tests of a proposed pulp capping agent (Reocap).

A calcium hydroxide-containing cement (Reocap) was tested with regard to its suitability as a pulp capping agent. The pulp of 34 monkey teeth was exposed and Reocap was applied to the pulp wound and the cavity floor, after which the cavities were filled with amalgam. The observation periods were 8 days (10 teeth) and 80 days (24 teeth). After 8 days a necrotic area was seen in the pulp subjacent to the pulp capping agent and the surrounding tissue was inflamed to varying degree. After 80 days hard tissue formation was observed at the exposure site in 21 teeth. The hard tissue enclosed areas of necrotic and/or vital tissue and a complete bridge had not formed. In 7 teeth the pulp was necrotic whereas 3 teeth presented a pulp free of inflammation. In the remaining teeth the pulp showed a chronic inflammatory reaction. As judged by these results, Reocap does not appear to be as well suited as a pulp capping agent as pure calcium hydroxide.