What does an indirect pulp cap aim to achieve?

An indirect pulp cap is a dental procedure aimed at promoting the healing of the dental pulp while preserving its vitality. This treatment is used when there is a deep carious lesion close to the pulp but the pulp remains asymptomatic without signs of irreversible damage. By applying a biocompatible material, the procedure allows for partial removal of carious dentin, avoiding the complete exposure of the pulp.

In doing so, the indirect pulp cap encourages the formation of reparative dentin, which can help protect the pulp from further injury and infection. The procedure does not involve a complete restoration or direct exposure of the pulp, but rather, it creates conditions conducive to the pulp's ability to heal and repair itself.

This contrasts with full removal of carious dentin, which may not be appropriate in cases where the pulp is at risk. Temporary sealing, while important in some contexts, does not specifically prioritize pulp stimulation. Permanent restoration would indicate a final procedural step rather than the initial protective approach taken in an indirect pulp cap.