Dentist-related factors influencing the use of vital pulp therapy: a survey among dental practitioners in China

Objective: To evaluate dentist-related factors associated with the use of vital pulp therapy (VPT) for the treatment of pulp exposures in permanent teeth. Methods: This survey-based study sent an online questionnaire to collect data on the demographics of the respondents, the use of VPT and the choice of materials for VPT, to all members of the Society of Endodontology of Guangdong, China. Results: A total 183 of 380 members responded (48.2%). The majority (89.6%; 164 of 183) had performed direct pulp capping (DPC) while 55.2% (101 of 183) had performed partial pulpotomy (PP) at least once. The most-cited reason for not performing VPT was unfamiliarity with the technique. Mineral trioxide aggregate was the most commonly used material for both DPC (67.1%; 110 of 164) and PP (73.3%; 74 of 101). Endodontists, compared with general practitioners, preferred to perform DPC and chose calcium silicate materials (CSMs) for VPT (odds ratios 5.81 and 8.07, respectively). DPC and CSMs for VPT were also favoured more by respondents who had practised for > 5 years. Senior respondents were more likely to use PP. Conclusions: Speciality, years of practise and age of dentists influenced the decision making and the choice of materials for VPT. Continuing education is essential to promote the clinical use of VPT.