Renaissance of the pulp: A philosophical exploration of direct pulp capping

The prevalence of dental caries remains significant worldwide, particularly affecting older adults and socially disadvantaged groups in Western countries. If left untreated, caries can progress through the dentin, leading to pulpitis, pulp infection, and eventually pulp necrosis. However, pulpal healing is possible, even in cases of deep carious lesions, if conservative treatments are applied. One such treatment option is direct pulp capping, which is used for teeth with exposed pulp due to trauma or caries. This case report illustrates the successful use of direct pulp capping, a conservative procedure designed to maintain pulp vitality and prevent the need for root canal therapy and further endodontic intervention. A 22-year-old female patient experienced pulp exposure during caries excavation caused by a deep carious lesion on the mandibular left second molar. After achieving careful hemostasis and disinfection, the exposed pulp was immediately treated with a biocompatible calcium hydroxide material. Calcium hydroxide is utilized to preserve pulp vitality and stimulate the formation of a dentin bridge. The tooth was then restored using a resin-based composite. Follow-up examinations over six months showed no signs of periapical disease or pulpal inflammation.