Concentration of formocresol used by pediatric dentists in primary tooth pulpotomy

Department of Pediatric Dentistry

Resident’s Name:Murphy Program: Lutheran Medical Center - Providence
Article title: Concentration of formocresol used by pediatric dentists in primary tooth pulpotomy
Author(s): Silvia King, DDS, Alton McWorter, DDS MS, et al
Journal: Ped. Dent
Year. Volume (number). Page #’s: 2002. 24:2. 157-160
Major topic: Formocresol concentrations being used by PD
Minor topic(s): Dilution of formo
Main Purpose: To determine the concentration of formocresol used for primary tooth pulpotomy by private practicing PD who use formo.

Overview of method of research:
806 surveys were sent out randomly to active members of the AAPD. The survey questions asked about the PD use of formo, what concentration they use if they use it, and how they dilute it (if they do).

Findings: 422 (52%) responded to the survey. 84% of PD acknowledged using formo. The two main formulations of formo were Buckley’s (19% formo), and a Standard formation (48.5%). Of those who use formo, 69% use full strength, 27% diluted, and 4% don’t know. Those who dilute their formo either buy it that way, dilute it themselves, or have the pharmacy dilute it for them. Interestingly, some of the PD who say they ‘dilute’ their formo consider diluting to be dabbing a formo soaked cotton pellet (FALSE). Also, some of the PD who think they are buying and using diluted formo are mistaken, they are using full strength. This means that 78% of practitioners using formo are using full strength instead of 69%.

Key points/Summary:
Diluted concentration is 1:5 ratio.
Most PD still use full strength formo

Assessment of Article:
Short. To the point. Good.