The healing actions of propolis on direct pulp capping treatment : A review

Direct pulp capping is a technique used to seal the dental pulp which may become exposed due to mechanical and/or chemical factors as well as bacterial activity in order to stimulates reparative dentin formation. Wound healing on an exposed dental pulp needs an interactive process which requires highly organized activity of various cells, synthesizing cytokines, growth factors, and also collagen. Propolis or bee glue is a natural occuring resinous substance collected by honeybee, represents a popular remedy, well known for its broad spectrum of biological and pharmacological properties.The exact chemical composition of propolis varies depends on plants around the beehive. Generally, its contains a rich variety of potent terpene, benzoic, caffeic, cinnamic, aromatic aldehyde, phenolic acid, and high in flavonoid. Its also contains vitamin A, B complex, C, E and minerals. Many studies showed that propolis improves wound healing on an exposed dental pulp due to its several activities such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and improved tissue regeneration. Therefore, the aim of this review is to discuss the use of propolis with emphasis on its healing actions on direct pulp capping treatment