Prevalence of Pulp Stones in Molars: A Cone-Beam Computed Tomographic Evaluation in a Brazilian Subpopulation

Abstract

Aims: Determine the prevalence of pulp stones by cone beam computerized tomography (CBCT) and explore any potential correlation between the occurrence of pulp stones with gender, age, tooth, arches, and condition of the dental crown. Methodology: CBCT of 300 patients were assessed, totaling 631 molars. All molars were analyzed in the sagittal, axial and coronal planes and, when present, pulp stones were identified as a round or oval hyperdense mass. Results: After data tabulation, statistical analysis was performed using chi-square tests, with a significance level set at 5%. Of a total of 300 patients, pulp stones were identified in 35% of subjects and in 25.5% of molars. The presence of pulp stones was most frequently found in females (41.1%) than in males (27.7%) and in individuals aged over 60 years. The first upper molars showed the highest incidence of pulp stones. No significant difference was observed when maxillary and mandibular arches were compared, neither side. The presence of pulp stones was higher in restored molars when compared to intact teeth (P<0.05). Conclusion: CBCT is an efficient resource for the diagnosis and location of pulp stones and may be used to assist clinicians planning the safest endodontic approach. The prevalence and distribution of pulp stones regarding gender and type of teeth is paramount for the proper design of root canal treatment.