What is the role of indirect pulp therapy in deep caries management and what materials are commonly used as liners?

Study for the Pediatric Dentistry II Exam. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Prepare thoroughly for your exam!

Indirect pulp therapy aims to preserve pulp vitality when caries are deep by removing most of the decayed dentin while leaving a thin layer over the pulp, then sealing that dentin with a liner to protect the pulp and encourage reparative dentin formation. Calcium hydroxide is a classic liner because it provides antibacterial action and promotes dentin bridge formation, helping the pulp heal. Dentin bonding agents can also be used as liners to create a tight seal over the residual dentin and improve the seal under the final restoration. Modern options like glass ionomer liners or other bioactive materials may be used as well, but the core idea is to protect the pulp and support healing under a final restoration. This approach focuses on pulp preservation rather than removing all caries, strengthening enamel, or extracting the tooth.