ENDODONTIC MANAGEMENT IN PRIMARY DENTITION: CLINICAL FUNDAMENTALS AND THERAPEUTIC IMPLICATIONS

Abstract

Maintaining primary teeth until their physiological exfoliation depends on an accurate diagnosis and the selection of clinical approaches consistent with the pulp status and the prognosis of the specific tooth. This study aimed to analyze endodontic management in primary dentition, focusing on clinical principles, techniques, and materials used in pulp treatment. An integrative literature review was conducted—employing a qualitative, descriptive approach—based on studies published between 2021 and 2026, sourced from the PubMed, SciELO, LILACS, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Following the identification, screening, and eligibility phases, 20 studies were included in the final sample. The results revealed a predominance of research concerning pulpotomy, pulpectomy, bioceramic materials, root canal filling materials, and instrumentation systems. Calcium silicate-based cements yielded favorable clinical and radiographic outcomes in pulpotomies, while various materials used in pulpectomies also demonstrated satisfactory success rates. It is concluded that the choice of therapeutic approach must take into account the pulp diagnosis, clinical and radiographic findings, the stage of root resorption, the technique employed, the material selected, and subsequent follow-up.