Endodontics · single question
Which material is BEST for promoting dentinal bridge formation (pulp capping)?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Calcium hydroxide [Ca(OH)₂]
Calcium hydroxide is the traditional gold-standard material for direct and indirect pulp capping. Its high pH (~12.5) is bactericidal and stimulates the pulp to form a tertiary (reparative) dentin bridge by activating odontoblast-like cells. Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) has superior evidence in contemporary literature, but calcium hydroxide remains the classic and most tested answer for INBDE.
- A. CORRECT. Ca(OH)₂ induces dentinal bridge formation through its alkaline pH and chemical stimulus to odontoblast-like cells, forming reparative/tertiary dentin.
- B. Incorrect. ZOE has mild pulpal irritant potential; eugenol can be cytotoxic to pulp cells and does not stimulate reparative dentin bridge formation.
- C. Incorrect. Glass ionomer cement provides good adhesion and fluoride release but does not specifically stimulate dentinal bridge formation.
- D. Incorrect. Composite resin has no biologically active properties to stimulate pulpal repair or bridge formation.