Vital Pulp Therapy

Abstract

Minimal invasive dentistry has gained popularity during the last few years, as tissue preservation seems to be related to the long-term preservation of the teeth. Endodontics is often restricted to the notion of root canal treatment. Nevertheless, pulp preservation treatment must also be considered as part of endodontics. Dental pulp capping is not a new operative procedure, as first scientific evidence has been highlighted in the 30s with Zhander’s publication. The concept came back in the dentistry field around 10 years ago with the development of a new family of materials of the MTA family and based on calcium-silicate composition, routinely called as bioceramics. Unfortunately, considering that dental pulp capping and pulpotomy prognosis is only related to the choice of the covering material is a mistake. Infection control, inflammation control, sealing of the wound and the cavity are definitely more important that the material itself. In this chapter, the key factors to take into consideration for a better outcome of pulp capping and partial and full pulpotomy, the most minimal invasive endodontic procedures, will be described.