Recent advances in Pulp Vitality Testing

Tests of pulp vitality are crucial for determining the condition of pulp. To help with the treatment plan pulp tests are typically performed prior to restorative or endodontic therapy. Vital pulp is recommended for restorative treatment. Endodontic therapy is appropriate for non-vital pulp.It is recommended to use more than one test and compare the results to get a definitive diagnosis. The unreliability of testing tooth pulp nerve response is well documented. Optical devices that exploit the various absorbance properties of different substances within the dental pulp are being studied to determine pulsation and blood volume. They offer the advantages of being objective noninvasive and atraumatic testing modalities which result in in greater patient acceptance and co- operation. Currently the significance and reliability of these methods are being studied. It is hoped that newer technology will enable a more thorough study of the pulpal vasculature and define its role in pulp vitality testing.