Pulpal calcifications in orthodontically moved teeth: Scoping review

BACKGROUND: The application of forces during orthodontic treatment can induce pulpal calcifications, characterized by the deposition of mineralized tissue in the pulp cavity space, there may be repercussions on dental procedures, especially endodontic treatment. The objective of this article is to map the scientific evidence and any gaps in knowledge regarding the relationship between orthodontics and dental pulp calcifications. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study comprised a scoping review whose guiding question was: “What is the scientific evidence of the association between pulpal calcifications and orthodontic treatment?” Two independent reviewers searched the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases and the grey literature. Original articles and observational and clinical trials, which addressed the repercussions on the pulp cavity of teeth submitted to orthodontic treatment, were included. There was no language restriction or limitation of the year of publication until October 2022. RESULTS: After critical reading and applying the eligibility criteria, 11 studies were included in this scoping review: six observational and five experimental studies. A statistically significant association of orthodontic treatment with changes in pulp cavity volume and increased incidence of pulp stones was observed among the studies findings. CONCLUSIONS: The orthodontic force can promote changes in the dental pulp that may cause direct implications in other dental treatments, especially endodontic treatment. Key words:Dental pulp calcifications, pulp node, pulp obliteration, orthodontic treatment, orthodontics.