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What does estirpation refer to in dental treatment?

  1. Applying a filling material

  2. Removing the pulpal tissue

  3. Cleaning the outer enamel

  4. Injecting anesthesia

The correct answer is: Removing the pulpal tissue

Estirpation in dental treatment specifically refers to the removal of pulpal tissue. This process is crucial in endodontics, particularly in the treatment of infected or damaged dental pulp within a tooth. When a tooth's pulp becomes infected, it can lead to pain and further complications, making estirpation a necessary procedure to alleviate discomfort and preserve the tooth. The procedure involves carefully excising the pulpal tissue to prevent infection from spreading and to prepare the tooth for further treatment, such as root canal therapy or filling. Thus, understanding the term "estirpation" is vital for recognizing its role in dental care and treatment protocols.