Reversible Pulpitis
Condition should return to normal with removal of the cause. Common causes: Caries, recent restorative procedures, faulty restorations, trauma, exposed dentinal tubules, periodontal scaling. Pulpal recovery will occur if reparative cells in the pulp are adequate. Symptoms of Reversible Pulpitis Thermal: Hypersensitive with mild pain of <30 seconds, but similar to control tooth Sweets: Sensitive (if caries, crack, or exposed dentin) with mild pain of <30 seconds (similar to control tooth) Biting Pressure: None (unless tooth is cracked)
Diagnosis Reversible Pulpitis If there is a discrepancy between the patients chief complaint, symptoms, and clinical examination obtain more information or data interpretation. Remember: both a preoperative pulpal and periapical diagnosis are made before treatment is initiated (if reversible pulpitis is only condition, the periapical area should be normal). If the tooth is percussion sensitive consider bruxism or hyperocclusion.
Treatment of Reversible Pulpitis Remove irritant if present (caries; fracture; exposed dentinal tubules). If no pulp exposure: CaOH, restore-> monitor If pulp exposure: Carious: initiate RCT Mechanical: >1 mm: initiate RCT <1 mm crown planned: initiate RCT <1 mm: direct cap or RCT If recent operative or trauma postpone additional treatment and monitor.
