Pulp vitality tests

Abstract

Accurate diagnosis is imperative for success of root canal treatment. Currently employed vitality tests, in the true sense are termed as sensibility tests as they assess the response of the nerves of the pulp to a stimulus like heat or electric current. Assessment of pulp vitality should ideally be done based on evaluation of vascularity of the tooth and these tests may be termed true tests of pulp vitality. True tests of pulp vitality include laser doppler flowmetry, pulse oximetry, liquid crystal testing and infrared thermography. This review discusses the true tests of pulp vitality and their applications in endodontics. © Nova Science Publishers, Inc.