The discovery of over 3,000 manually prepared dental products containing arsenic, seized by Ho Chi Minh City authorities and sold to dental clinics nationwide, has raised concerns about oral treatment safety. While the Ministry of Health does not explicitly ban arsenic, it has long been excluded from modern dentistry due to its potential to cause necrosis or jawbone resorption. However, its low cost and rapid pulp-killing effect have led some small or unlicensed dental facilities to use arsenic, advertised as "super-fast pulp killer" or "express pulp killer."

Patients face challenges in determining if their dentist is using arsenic to treat tooth pulp. Doctor Nguyen Duc Minh, Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Hospital of Odonto-Stomatology, states that it is difficult for patients to self-identify whether arsenic is being used.

"Instead of waiting for complications, the best protection is to proactively choose a reputable dental facility and inquire about the treatment process from the outset," Doctor Minh advised.

Pulp removal is indicated for severe tooth decay, irreversible pulp inflammation, or necrosis. Thoroughly cleaning the inflamed area is essential before filling or crowning to prevent infection beneath the restoration. The current standard procedure for pulp removal at reputable hospitals involves local anesthesia and specialized shaping systems. This method ensures patients experience minimal discomfort and can often be completed in one appointment. Any mild soreness afterward is typically a minor reaction that quickly subsides.

Conversely, the older method uses arsenic-containing agents to kill pulp through cellular toxicity and tissue necrosis. While initial pain reduction may occur within 24 to 48 hours after application, patients might also experience acute pain due to pulp hyperemia, depending on their condition. If the medication leaks into the gums or jawbone through a loose filling, complications such as localized necrosis can arise. Arsenic-induced pain is often persistent, dull, and unresponsive to common painkillers. In severe cases, rapid jawbone loss, gum recession, and exposed tooth roots can occur within a few weeks.

According to Doctor Minh, if a dentist prescribes a pulp-killing agent without administering local anesthesia, patients should not passively accept the treatment but must clearly ask for the name of the medication. Safe, modern medications are arsenic-free and come with clear labeling. Patients have every right to demand this information's transparency.

"Dental advertisements such as 'instant pulp kill without anesthesia' are highly suspicious," the doctor warned.

Arsenic products seized by authorities. Photo: Ho Chi Minh City Police

To ensure safety, experts recommend that individuals seek treatment only at licensed, reputable dental facilities. When pulp removal is necessary, confirm with the dentist about the direct anesthesia method or request to check the type of medication placed in the tooth to avoid unnecessary risks from unregulated products.

Le Phuong