The aim was to review the efficacy of the enamel matrix derivative (EMD) in 
direct pulp capping (DPC) procedures. Databases were explored using the 
following keywords: 'dental', 'dentine', 'enamel matrix derivative', 'pulp 
capping' and 'treatment'. The inclusion criteria were: (i) original studies; 
(ii) human and animal studies; (iii) reference list of potentially relevant 
original and review articles; (iv) intervention: effect of EMD on pulp-capping 
procedures; and (v) articles published only in English. Eight studies (four 
human and four animal) were included. Among the human studies, two studies 
reported that EMD is a more efficient DPC procedure compared with calcium 
hydroxide (Ca(OH)2 ). One study reported Ca(OH)2 to be more efficient for DPC 
than EMD. One study reported no difference in the efficacies between EMD and 
Ca(OH)2 for DPC. All animal studies reported EMD to be more effective in 
reparative dentine formation in comparison with Ca(OH)2 . EMD can provide 
favourable results in DPC procedures.