A vital permanent molar has deep caries likely to expose the pulp. What is your approach?
For a restorable tooth with normal pulp or reversible pulpitis, consider one-step selective excavation and a durable seal to preserve vitality.
-
Confirm pulp diagnosis and restorability before choosing the procedure.
-
Selective removal reduces exposure risk; routine reopening is not required by the cited evidence.
-
Necrosis or infection requires a different pulp-treatment pathway.
-
The retained dentin requires an effective seal, and treatment must include prevention and clinical/radiographic surveillance rather than equate placing a restoration with curing the disease.