Purpose
Protect the nerve
Visit
Usually one
Anaesthetic
Local
Goal
Avoid root canal
Overview
When decay or a small injury comes very close to the nerve, a pulp cap places a soothing material over it. The aim is to calm the nerve so it can recover and stay alive.
It is most likely to work when the nerve is only mildly irritated and not badly infected. If symptoms continue, root canal treatment may still be needed.
What to know
- Protects a nerve that is close to exposure
- Aims to avoid root canal treatment
- Works best on a mildly irritated nerve
- May not succeed if the nerve is too damaged
Common questions
When is pulp capping suitable?
When the nerve is only just exposed or close, and not heavily infected.
Does it always work?
No, the nerve may not settle, and root canal treatment may still be needed.
Will I feel pain afterwards?
Some sensitivity is normal at first and usually eases over days to weeks.
How will I know if it failed?
Lasting pain, throbbing or sensitivity to heat may mean the nerve has not recovered.
What material is used?
A protective, often calcium-based dressing is placed before the filling.
Related topics
Root canal treatment
Treatment that saves a tooth by removing infected or damaged tissue inside it.
Tooth decay
Damage to the tooth caused by acid from plaque bacteria.
Cracked tooth & the nerve
How a cracked tooth can irritate the nerve and what can be done about it.
Tooth-coloured (composite) filling
A tooth-coloured filling that repairs a tooth and blends in naturally.
Dr Rick Iskandar · Reviewed June 2026