Study Design: Prospective randomized controlled trial

Aim: The aim of the present study was to clinically and radiologically evaluate two root canal filling materials in infected deciduous teeth over a period of 6 months.

Background data: Pulp treatment in deciduous teeth is challenging due to the complex anatomy of the root canal system. The limitations in bio–mechanical preparation and root canal cleansing can be overcome by ideal root canal filling material.

Materials and methods: Twenty–two patients having 40 infected deciduous teeth in children between ages 3–8 years requiring pulpectomy were divided in two groups, group I (GI) and group II (GII) and filled with Zinc Oxide Eugenol (ZOE) paste and calcium hydroxide and iodoform (CHI) paste respectively. All the teeth were evaluated for clinical and radiological success at 6 months. The data obtained was tabulated and analyzed statistically.

Results: Clinical success rate of 90% and 95% while radiological success rate of 75% and 95% were recorded for GI and GII respectively. The overall success rate of 65% of GI and 90% in GII was recorded.

Conclusion: CHI paste showed a higher overall success rate than ZOE paste in infected deciduous teeth in single visit pulpectomies.