P-3 - Vital Pulp Therapy and Revitalization: Current and Emerging Perspectives

Vital pulp therapy and pulp revitalization are within the scope of endodontic practice. The dental pulp and its surrounding dentin have several defense mechanisms. Activation of these pathways results in reactionary or reparative tertiary dentinogenesis. When the pulp is reversibly inflamed, the treatment of choice is maintaining its vitality by vital pulp therapy. When the pulp dies before complete root development, normal root growth is disrupted. A treatment option is regenerative endodontics. There is a growing body of evidence to suggest that the use of regenerative endodontics in these teeth can result in formation of vital tissues and elimination of periapical pathosis. Various materials and techniques have been used for vital pulp therapy, apexification and regenerative endodontics to save natural dentition. In this lecture the presenters will discuss the pros and cons of vital pulp therapy procedures and regenerative endodontics, as well as current and the emerging materials, clinical protocols and next-generation strategies to promote regenerative processes and improve the outcomes of these treatments for teeth with mature and immature apexes in endodontic practice.