Indirect pulp capping is indicated under which condition?

• A. When there is an exposure.
• B. When proximal sealing is needed.
• C. When caries is very close to the pulp but there is no exposure; a liner/buffer is placed to encourage dentin bridge formation and pulp vitality.
• D. When caries has caused irreversible pulpitis.

Answer: (C)

The situation being tested is when indirect pulp capping is appropriate: the carious lesion is very close to the pulp but there is no exposure. In this scenario, you remove most of the decayed dentin but leave a thin layer over the pulp, then place a liner or buffer to calm the pulp and stimulate dentin bridge formation. This approach aims to protect the pulp and preserve vitality by encouraging reparative dentin formation beneath the liner. It is not used if the pulp is exposed, not about proximal sealing alone, and not suitable when irreversible pulpitis has already occurred, which would require more extensive pulp therapy.