Indirect Pulp Capping is a technique that protects a compromised tooth without exposed pulp. It may allow you to avoid more invasive procedures like tooth extraction or a root canal. It retains or holds the tooth and allows its roots to continue developing. in general, your dental professional will recommend indirect pulp capping when you experience no pain, but decay has penetrated the dentin so deeply that removal will expose the pulp. The AADP also recommends indirect pulp capping on almost all primary teeth and young permanent teeth.
Steps in Indirect Pulp Capping:
- Removing the decay: A dental professional will remove the most decayed portion in the tooth surface, but a thin layer is retained to cover the pulp tissue
- Adding a sedative material: Once the decay is removed, the dentist will apply a protective layer of sedative to promote dentine remineralization
- Filling the cavity: The tooth is filled with a temporary filling material and the second appointment time is scheduled.
- Evaluating the process: 6-8 months later, the dentist will remove the temporary restoration and check for healing. Usually, within this period of time dentin remineralization must happen and the residual caries are removed.
- Providing permanent restoration: A permanent filling is placed to strengthen the tooth and allow the patient to chew and bite normally.
