HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What happens during direct capping?

1. A medication is placed indirectly on inflamed pulp

2. A medicament is placed directly upon the exposed, affected pulp

3. Pulpal tissue is removed from the tooth

4. Positive reinforcement is provided to the patient

The correct answer is: A medicament is placed directly upon the exposed, affected pulp

During direct capping, a medicament is applied directly to an exposed area of the pulp that has been affected by decay or injury. This procedure is typically performed when there is a pulp exposure due to caries, and the goal is to promote healing and maintain the vitality of the pulp tissue. The medicament used, often calcium hydroxide or other biocompatible materials, aims to stimulate reparative dentin formation and protect the pulp from bacterial infection. By placing the medicament directly on the exposed pulp, dentists can encourage the healing process rather than opting for more invasive treatments, such as root canal therapy or pulp extirpation, which are necessary if the pulp is irreversibly damaged or necrotic. It is a crucial step in certain dental treatments aimed at salvaging the natural tooth structure and maintaining dental health.