Pulp capping is a treatment carried out when a tooth is badly damaged, for example by deep decay or an impact, but the "nerve" (the pulp) of the tooth can still be saved. The idea is to protect this nerve to avoid having to perform a root canal.

Dental pulp (blood vessels and nerve) exposed before pulp capping — Illustrative diagram — Exposed dental pulp, before pulp capping

The principle is to apply a material, like a "dressing", to help the nerve heal itself and stay healthy. This treatment is often used on young teeth, or when the goal is to preserve the tooth's vitality for as long as possible.

Diagram illustrating the principle of pulp capping — Illustrative diagram — Pulp capping

Keep exploring

Other endodontic treatments

Endodontic treatmentA procedure to disinfect and preserve a tooth deeply affected by decay or infection.Endodontic retreatmentWhen a previously treated tooth shows a persistent or recurring infection.Endodontic microsurgeryA targeted procedure at the tip of the root, when a conventional treatment isn't enough.ApexificationStabilising a tooth whose root has not fully formed.Internal whiteningRestoring the original colour of a root-treated tooth that has darkened, without covering it.

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