What is the primary objective of pulp capping?

The primary objective of pulp capping is to preserve the vitality of the pulp, specifically focusing on maintaining the health of the coronal pulp when it is exposed to potential irritants. This procedure is employed when the pulp is not yet necrotic, and the goal is to protect the pulp from further damage and promote healing. By capping the exposed pulp with a protective material, the vitality of the remaining pulp tissue can be preserved, allowing for continued function and potential regeneration of healthy pulp tissue.

This practice is crucial in restorative dentistry, especially in cases where an exposure occurs due to dental caries or trauma. The aim is to prevent more invasive procedures, such as root canal treatment, which would be necessary if the pulp were to die or become infected. This distinguishes pulp capping from other procedures that involve complete removal of the pulp tissue, focusing instead on intervention that aims to retain the pulp’s vitality.