Promoting biological-based solutions for restoring the vitality of the dentin-pulp complex has focussed attention on developing minimally-invasive techniques. This symposium presents and discusses a century of investigation, with particular focus on elucidating the role of inflammation and dentin matrix components in the repair process. The symposium will also deliver new insights into the mediators of pulpitis and next-generation materials - their mechanisms of action and potential use as therapeutic targets will be considered.