What procedure might involve the removal and cleaning of the dental pulp?

The procedure that involves the removal and cleaning of the dental pulp is endodontics. This branch of dentistry specifically focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the dental pulp and surrounding tissues. When a tooth is infected or damaged, the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels, may need to be removed through a procedure known as root canal therapy. After the pulp is cleaned out, the root canal system is usually filled and sealed to prevent further infection.

In contrast, the other areas of dentistry listed do not specifically involve the treatment of dental pulp. Crowning refers to placing a crown on a tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength; orthodontics focuses on the alignment of teeth and jaws, often using braces; and periodontics is concerned with the supporting structures of teeth, including gums and bone, and the treatment of periodontal disease. These specialties have distinct roles that do not include the direct intervention on dental pulp as seen in endodontics.