The regenerative potential of dental pulp, particularly in mature teeth, has been considered extremely limited. However, our improved understanding of pulpal inflammation and repair and improved dental materials and technologies make vital pulp therapy a viable alternative to root canal treatment. This article explores our knowledge in this regard and the future potential of saving or even regenerating the pulp as a routine dental procedure.
Address requests for reprints to Martin Trope, DMD, 1601 Walnut St, Suite 402, Philadelphia, PA 19102.
Conflict of Interest: Martin Trope, DMD, reports no financial interests or potential conflicts of interest.
This article is being published concurrently in Pediatric Dentistry, May/June 2008; Volume 30, Issue 3. The articles are identical. Either citation can be used when citing this article.
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