Thermal transfer in extracted incisors during thermal pulp sensitivity testing

Abstract

Aim To measure the temperature distribution within tooth structure during and after application of thermal stimuli used during pulp sensitivity testing. Methodology Extracted intact human maxillary anterior teeth were investigated for temperature changes at the labial enamel, the dentino-enamel junction (DEJ) and pulpal surface during and after a 5-s application of six different thermal stimuli: hot water (80 °C), heated gutta-percha (140 °C), carbon dioxide dry ice (-72 °C), refrigerant spray (-50 °C), ice stick (0 °C) and cold water (2 °C). J-type thermocouples and heat conduction paste were used to detect temperature changes, together with a data acquisition system (Labview). Data were an..