The blood vessels, nerves, and tissue that keep a tooth healthy and alive are located in the tooth’s pulp, which is protected by the outer enamel and tooth structure. Sometimes the pulp can become infected. The infected pulp can be removed with vital pulp therapy. A medicated dressing is placed in the tooth chamber to prevent further infection and to promote the healing of the remaining pulp. A filling or crown is then placed to optimally protect the tooth from re-infection.