Calcium Silicates in Regenerative Endodontics/Revitalization

Abstract Body: To maintain or re-establish pulp vitality is an essential goal in conservative dentistry. Regenerative endodontics enable the replacement or healing of damaged structures of the dentin-pulp complex. After partial damage, vital pulp treatment is a means to restore the tissue’s functionality. Advances in the fields of pulp biology and immunology, a deeper understanding of microbiological challenges and the availability of calcium silicates have improved the prognosis after vital pulp treatment considerably. Still, carious exposures are different from traumatic injuries, and different approaches (pulp capping, partial or full pulpotomy) have to be chosen depending on the clinical situation.
After the complete loss of pulpal tissue, revitalization is a means to re-establish vital tissue in a formerly empty root canal. Revitalization is indicated in immature teeth with pulp necrosis and thus an alternative treatment option to the apical plug. Healing occurs after sufficient disinfection followed by provocation of bleeding into the root canal. New tissue formation occurs, which may involve a continuation of root formation.
The use of calcium silicates is recommended for vital pulp treatment as well as for revitalization. This lecture will discuss biological and clinical aspects, cover procedural details and potential problems and highlight the influence of these materials on success and outcome.