Abstract: Objective: To evaluate the clinical outcome of primary molars with cariously exposed vital pulps receiving mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) as pulp-dressing agents in coronal pulpotomy under general anesthesia. Methods: The clinical and radiographic data of 118 primary molars were collected during 2013-2015. All teeth were restored with a glass ionomer cement base and stainless steel crowns after MTA coronal pulpotomy. Clinical and radiographic examinations were undertaken at the 1, 3, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months follow-up. Results: The clinical and radiographic success rates were both 99.1% at the 6-month recall visit. After 12 months, the clinical and radiographic success rates were 98.1% and 97.8%, respectively. After 18 months, they were 96.7% and 94.5%. At 24 months follow-up, they were 94.3% and 90.7%, respectively. As well, 11.0% primary molars were observed dentin bridge, and 12.3% exhibited pulp canal obliteration. Conclusion: The clinical effectiveness of coronal pulpotomy employing mineral trioxide aggregate on primary molars with deep caries under general anesthesia should be affirmed.

Key words: Primary molar, Deep caries, Pulpotomy, Mineral trioxide aggregate, General anesthesia