Question 1

What is the difference between vital pulp therapy and root canal treatment?

Accepted Answer

Vital pulp therapy aims to preserve the healthy portion of the dental pulp by removing only the inflamed tissue, whereas root canal treatment involves the complete removal of the pulp, rendering the tooth non-vital. Retaining the tooth's vitality helps prevent common complications associated with devitalised teeth, such as discolouration and increased brittleness. Vital pulp therapy is therefore considered a more conservative and biologically favourable approach.

Question 2

Who is a suitable candidate for vital pulp therapy?

Accepted Answer

Ideal candidates include patients with early-stage acute pulpitis, where the inflammation has not yet become irreversible, as well as those with teeth affected by dental trauma such as fractures or injuries from accidents. Younger patients with a healthy immune system and teeth still demonstrating vital bleeding are particularly well suited. Patients with chronic pulpitis, pulp necrosis, or advanced periodontitis are generally not eligible for this treatment.

Question 3

What are the success rates of vital pulp therapy?

Accepted Answer

Vital pulp therapy achieves success rates of between 85 and 95 %, placing it on a par with conventional root canal treatment. The outcome depends largely on the timing of the intervention, the vitality of the remaining pulp tissue, and the absence of systemic conditions that may impair healing. Accurate diagnosis using digital imaging and clinical tests is essential to determine patient suitability.

Question 4

Is vital pulp therapy a painful procedure?

Accepted Answer

The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia and is therefore painless during treatment. A rubber dam (kofferdam) is applied to isolate the tooth and maintain a sterile environment throughout the procedure. Some mild post-treatment sensitivity may occur, but this typically subsides within a few days without further intervention.

Question 5

How many appointments are required for vital pulp therapy?

Accepted Answer

Vital pulp therapy is generally completed within 1–2 appointments, making it significantly less time-consuming than conventional root canal treatment, which may require 2–4 visits. Once the inflamed tissue has been removed and the wound sealed with a biocompatible material, the tooth can usually be restored in the same or a subsequent session. The exact number of appointments will depend on the individual clinical findings and healing progress.

Vital Pulp Therapy Vienna – Saving Tooth Nerve