What type of treatment is a Cvek pulpotomy specifically indicated for?

A Cvek pulpotomy is a specific type of treatment particularly indicated for teeth with carious exposure, which is when dental caries have progressed to the point of exposing the pulp chamber. This procedure is often performed in young patients, typically on primary or immature permanent teeth where the pulp is still vital and the aim is to preserve pulp vitality while managing infection.

In this technique, the carious tissue is removed, and the exposed pulp is treated carefully to maintain its health. The remaining vital pulp is covered with a protective dressing, usually calcium hydroxide or a similar biocompatible material, which encourages healing and dentin regeneration. This is crucial because preserving the vitality of the pulp can facilitate continued root development and overall tooth longevity.

The other types of pulpitis, such as chronic or acute pulpitis, typically indicate different treatment approaches, often involving more definitive measures like full root canal therapy or extraction, depending on the extent of the infection and the health of the tooth. Previously treated teeth might have had different pulpal or restorative issues that do not align with the specific indications for a Cvek pulpotomy. Thus, recognizing the proper context for this treatment enables effective case selection and better outcomes for patients.