Which material is indicated for traumatic exposures to pulp that are less than 2 mm and occurred within 24 hours?

Which material is indicated for traumatic exposures to pulp that are less than 2 mm and occurred within 24 hours?

• A. Formocresol
• B. Calcium hydroxide
• C. Chlorhexidine
• D. MTA

Answer: (A)

Direct pulp capping after a traumatic exposure is about preserving pulp vitality by creating a seal and encouraging a dentin bridge. When the exposure is small (less than 2 mm) and the injury is recent (within 24 hours), the goal is to place a material that supports hard-tissue formation and provides a durable seal. Calcium hydroxide has long been the standard for this scenario because its alkaline environment stimulates reparative dentin and helps form a protective barrier over the exposure, while also offering antibacterial benefits. This makes it a reliable first-line choice for direct pulp capping in small, recent exposures. MTA is a strong alternative known for excellent sealing and biocompatibility, and in many cases may yield a robust dentin bridge, but calcium hydroxide remains the classic teaching for this particular indication. Formocresol, on the other hand, is used for pulpotomy procedures in primary teeth and is not the material of choice for direct pulp capping of a traumatic exposure. Chlorhexidine is an antiseptic and does not serve as the pulp-capping agent in this context.

Direct pulp capping after a traumatic exposure is about preserving pulp vitality by creating a seal and encouraging a dentin bridge. When the exposure is small (less than 2 mm) and the injury is recent (within 24 hours), the goal is to place a material that supports hard-tissue formation and provides a durable seal. Calcium hydroxide has long been the standard for this scenario because its alkaline environment stimulates reparative dentin and helps form a protective barrier over the exposure, while also offering antibacterial benefits. This makes it a reliable first-line choice for direct pulp capping in small, recent exposures.

MTA is a strong alternative known for excellent sealing and biocompatibility, and in many cases may yield a robust dentin bridge, but calcium hydroxide remains the classic teaching for this particular indication.

Formocresol, on the other hand, is used for pulpotomy procedures in primary teeth and is not the material of choice for direct pulp capping of a traumatic exposure. Chlorhexidine is an antiseptic and does not serve as the pulp-capping agent in this context.