Exploring the efficacy and success rate of herbal obturating materials in pediatric dentistry a systematic review and meta-analysis

Introduction: The current review was conducted to analyze the success rate of using herbal obturating materials in pediatric dentistry and to compare their success rates for primary molars and postoperative pain, using meta-analyses and a systematic review. Methods: An extensive search analyzing the efficacy and success rate of herbal obturating materials in the pediatric population was conducted through the online databases such as Web of Science, EMBASE, PubMed, and SCOPUS with no restrictions on the time range. The study data were obtained and analyzed through meta-analyses software, and to avoid bias in the data, the software Newcastle–Ottawa scale was employed. Results: The review was performed and analyzed according to the PRISMA regulations formulated for meta-analyses and systematic review and the review results were filed at PROSPERO, with the ID CRD420251132204. In accordance with the inclusion criteria, about 8 works were selected and the meta-analysis results showed that success rates were similar in the herbal compositions in comparison to the control composition, with an odds ratio equal to 0.71 (95% confidence interval: [0.27,1.85], P = 0.48). Discussion: Herbal obturating materials are a promising new option for treating endodontically compromised primary teeth. They are effective in reducing pain and inflammation, promoting healing, and preventing infection. However, more research is needed to confirm their safety and efficacy.