Photobiomodulation-assisted pulp capping using nano-hydroxyapatite and mineral trioxide aggregate: Report of two cases

Direct pulp capping (DPC) aims to preserve pulp vitality following carious or mechanical pulp exposure. While calcium hydroxide and mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) are widely used, biomimetic materials, such as nano-hydroxyapatite (nHA), have shown promising bioactivity. Adjunctive photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) may enhance pulpal healing by modulating inflammation and stimulating reparative dentinogenesis. Two cases of reversible pulpitis in mandibular molars with carious pulpal exposures were managed using PBMT-assisted DPC. In Case 1, nHA powder was used, and in Case 2, MTA was used. Both cases received PBMT with a diode laser. Clinical and radiographic follow-up at 3, 6, and 12 months demonstrated resolution of symptoms, maintenance of pulp vitality, and evidence of dentin bridge formation. PBMT-assisted DPC using both nHA and MTA provided favorable clinical and radiographic outcomes, suggesting potential benefits of combining bioactive capping materials with PBMT in vital pulp therapy.