A histologic assessment of a HYBENX® oral tissue decontaminant in vital pulp therapy in dogs

The aim of this study was to assess HYBENX® Oral Tissue Decontaminant (HOTD) in treating vital pulp exposure in a canine model. The use of HOTD solution was compared to an accepted and standard regimen for vital pulp exposure, an application of a commercial calcium hydroxide product (Ca(OH)2). Both control and experimental treatments were followed by restoration with a commercial zinc oxide and eugenol obtundant intermediate restorative material and thermal insulator (ZOE). At 7 days there was 100% pulp vitality with HOTD and 50% with Ca(OH)2. New dentin formation was seen in 62.5% of the HOTD treated pulps and none of the Ca(OH)2 treatment group. The vital pulp exposures at day 21 post treatment with HOTD also showed significant improvement over Ca(OH)2 in the presence of odontoblasts, new dentin formation and pulp survivability. The presence of odontoblasts and new dentin was noted in 71% of the HOTD cases versus 50% of the survivable Ca(OH)2 cases. Furthermore, 100% of HOTD cases had vital pulps versus 62.5% of Ca(OH)2 cases. The 60-day specimens of both experimental and control techniques exhibited histologically similar appearances and were similar in outcomes. HOTD treatment at day 7 showed a significant positive difference, both in the formation of new dentin and tooth vitality. HOTD proved better for the post 21-day specimens and equivalent for the 60-day pulp specimens with no evidence of untoward tissue reactions or results.