Clinical applications of hydraulic calcium silicate–based biomaterials in paediatric endodontics

Nowadays, in order to prevent the early loss of cariously or traumatically damaged teeth in paediatric dentistry, different types of endodontic treatments are considered. Over the past decade, paediatric dentistry has primarily shifted its focus towards the preservation of vital tissues and improvement of treatment outcomes, and has benefitted immensely from the introduction of effective and safe bioactive endodontic materials. Since 1993, the year in which mineral trioxide aggregate was introduced, hydraulic calcium silicate–based biomaterials have made a significant impact on endodontic treatments. There is a growing body of evidence demonstrating that hydraulic calcium silicate cements are beneficial for both the least aggressive and most invasive type of vital pulp therapies, as well as for the management of non-vital primary/permanent young teeth. Moreover, clinicians' skills and knowledge regarding the applications of hydraulic calcium silicate–based biomaterials play a crucial role in achieving success with the applied methods. The objective of this review is to summarise the recent developments concerning hydraulic calcium silicate–based biomaterials and provide an overview of some existing trends alongside current theories that have significantly influenced the art and science of paediatric endodontics. Keywords: Biodentine, calcium-enriched mixture, calcium silicate–based, CEM cement, endodontics, hydraulic calcium silicate cement, mineral trioxide aggregate, primary teeth, pulpotomy, vital pulp therapy