What does a pulpotomy procedure involve?

A pulpotomy procedure specifically involves the removal of the coronal portion of an exposed vital pulp. This procedure is typically performed on deciduous teeth (primary teeth) or on permanent teeth that still have the potential for vitality. The goal of a pulpotomy is to maintain the vitality of the remaining root pulp while addressing issues such as inflammation or decay that affect the coronal pulp, which is the upper portion of the pulp chamber.

This process allows the dentist to preserve as much of the tooth's vitality as possible, often followed by placing a crown or other restorative material to protect the tooth and ensure its function. Pulpotomy procedures are key in managing dental caries or trauma in young teeth, thus aiding in their development and eventual replacement by permanent teeth.

Other options provided do not accurately describe the pulpotomy procedure. The complete removal of the pulp is known as a pulpectomy, repair of the tooth structure is a separate restorative procedure that does not specifically relate to pulp removal, and diagnostic testing of pulp vitality pertains to assessment methods rather than a specific treatment but does not involve any procedural intervention on the pulp itself. Thus, the correct understanding of a pulpotomy centers around the partial removal of pulp to treat and maintain the vitality of the