HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

When is indirect capping indicated?

1. When the pulp is exposed

2. When the pulp has not yet been exposed

3. For the treatment of a vital pulp

4. For the removal of pulpal tissue

The correct answer is: When the pulp has not yet been exposed

Indirect capping is indicated when the pulp has not yet been exposed but is at risk due to deep carious lesions or other factors that may threaten the integrity of the pulp tissue. The goal of indirect capping is to protect the pulp from potential exposure and subsequent inflammation or infection while promoting a healing environment. During this procedure, a biocompatible material is placed over the affected dentin to stimulate the formation of reparative dentin and maintain the vitality of the pulp. In scenarios where the pulp is exposed, immediate intervention techniques, such as direct pulp capping, are typically required. For cases involving treatment of a vital pulp, other procedures like pulp therapy are necessary. Similarly, when the removal of pulpal tissue is needed, root canal treatment is indicated. Thus, the use of indirect capping specifically addresses situations where the pulp is at risk but remains intact.