Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

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What is the primary reason for reduced outcomes of pulp capping in older teeth?

Decreased blood flow
Increased calcification
Higher risk of infection
Calcific metamorphosis

The correct answer is: Decreased blood flow

The primary reason for reduced outcomes of pulp capping in older teeth is decreased blood flow. As teeth age, the vascular supply diminishes, which can adversely affect the pulp's ability to respond to injury and undergo healing processes. This reduced blood flow limits the delivery of essential nutrients and immune cells necessary for the regeneration of pulp tissues. Older teeth tend to have a more fibrous, less vascularized pulp compared to younger teeth, which can lead to a diminished capacity for repair and increased likelihood of complications following interventions like pulp capping. This reduced vitality in the pulp may lead to a less effective healing response once the pulp-capping material is placed. While increased calcification, a higher risk of infection, and calcific metamorphosis can also contribute to issues in pulp capping outcomes, they are secondary effects. Increased calcification can decrease the size of the pulp chamber, making treatment more challenging, but it is the decreased blood flow that fundamentally hinders the healing potential of the pulp in older teeth.