When permanent teeth in children are traumatised, a pulpotomy can be performed. What is the most common reason for using calcium hydroxide in this procedure?

Calcium hydroxide is commonly used in a pulpotomy procedure primarily to maintain pulp vitality in the chamber. When permanent teeth in children are traumatized, preserving the vitality of the dental pulp is crucial for the continued development of the tooth. Calcium hydroxide has the ability to stimulate reparative dentin formation and encourages the health of the pulp tissue, providing a protective effect. This not only helps in maintaining the vitality of the remaining pulp but also assists in the healing process and tooth maturation, which is essential in growing children.

The other uses of calcium hydroxide, although important, do not capture the primary purpose as effectively as maintaining pulp vitality does in the context of a pulpotomy. While it can also play a role in sealing canals and has some antibacterial properties, and it can aid in root growth in specific scenarios, these aspects are secondary to the fundamental goal of preserving the vitality of the dental pulp in children undergoing this treatment.