Vital pulp therapy: the past, present and future

Abstract

Vital pulp therapy (VPT) aims to preserve pulpal sensation. Historically VPT was considered a treatment option for deciduous teeth or young immature permanent teeth. Carious pulp exposure in permanent mature teeth was considered a contraindication for VPT and warranted root canal treatment (RCT). Recently, VPT has been used for management of carious pulp exposures in mature permanent teeth, with good outcomes, even in the presence of clinical signs and symptoms suggestive of irreversible pulpitis. VPT is a simple and conservative alternative to root canal treatment in a few clinical situations. It is imperative that dentists understand its indications and techniques. CPD/Clinical Relevance: The reader should understand the evidence-based changes in approach to VPT and the future direction of this treatment modality.