312 - Development and implementation of template to record VPT in permanent teeth

Abstract:

Purpose: The purpose of this retrospective chart review was to evaluate the utilization of a standardized clinical note template for documenting vital pulp therapy (VPT) in permanent teeth, identifying barriers to its use, and assessing whether the template facilitates accurate evaluation of treatment outcomes in a postgraduate pediatric dental clinic.

Methods: Records of pediatric patients who received VPT on permanent teeth in a university-based pediatric dentistry clinic between January 1, 2024 and November 30, 2025 were retrospectively reviewed. Procedures included indirect pulp cap, direct pulp cap, pulpotomy, and partial pulpotomy for apexogenesis. Charts were assessed for utilization and completeness of the VPT template, ability to capture diagnostic and treatment variables, and documentation of clinical and radiographic outcomes at follow-up visits. SPSS statistical program will use descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses to evaluate associations between template utilization, patient and tooth characteristics, and outcome evaluability. Informal feedback from resident providers was periodically collected to identify perceived barriers to template utilization.

Results: Final data pending. Preliminary observations indicate variability in template utilization and documentation completeness among providers. When utilized, the template appeared to improve consistency in recording preoperative diagnosis, treatment details, and follow-up findings relevant to outcome assessment.

Conclusions: Standardized documentation using a VPT clinical note template may improve consistency and completeness of records, supporting more reliable evaluation of treatment outcomes in immature permanent teeth

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