What Is Pulp Capping?
Pulp capping is a procedure designed to protect the pulp, the sensitive tissue inside your tooth, from further damage. At Purchase Endodontics, Dr. Scott D. Seitzinger and Dr. Daniela K. Shields use pulp capping to treat cavities that are close to the pulp but have not yet infected it. By preserving the healthy pulp tissue, pulp capping helps maintain your natural tooth and prevents the need for more invasive treatments like root canals. If you're experiencing tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, or visible decay near the pulp, contact Purchase Endodontics in Paducah, KY to schedule a consultation and find out if pulp capping is the right choice for you.
How Is Pulp Capping Performed?
The pulp capping procedure begins with a thorough exam of the affected tooth. Dr. Seitzinger or Dr. Shields will carefully assess the extent of decay and whether the pulp is still viable. If the pulp remains healthy but is at risk of infection, they will either perform direct pulp capping (if the pulp is exposed) or indirect pulp capping (if the pulp is not directly exposed) to preserve the tooth and prevent further damage. A medicated dressing is then applied to protect the pulp, and the tooth is sealed with a filling or crown to restore its function. Pulp capping is minimally invasive and quick, usually requiring just one appointment at our Paducah, KY practice. Most patients experience little to no recovery time, allowing them to return to normal activities shortly after the procedure.
What Are the Benefits of Pulp Capping for Tooth Preservation?
Pulp capping helps preserve your natural tooth by preventing infection and damage, all while avoiding the need for more invasive treatments. This procedure provides a simpler, quicker alternative to root canals for eligible patients, saving time and preserving your smile. Some of the benefits of pulp capping include:
- Saving your natural tooth and avoiding extraction
- Minimizing discomfort compared to more complex treatments
- Preventing further infection and preserving the tooth's health
- Restoring tooth function with a filling or crown
- Faster recovery and less disruption to your routine
Purchase Endodontics Reviews
Dr. Shields and her assistant are absolute gems. Thank you both!
The best dental office I have ever been to. Everyone is extremely kind. Would recommend to anyone!
Best experience ever! - The whole staff was incredibly nice and I was in on time. Dr. Shield’s came in and explained everything she was going to do and why. I had always heard horror stories about a root canal but it wasn’t bad at all. If I could go there for ALL my dental needs I certainly would.
Dr. Seitzinger did a root canal for me and was excellent! Kind, professional and informative about the procedure. His staff was also very friendly and professional as well!Highly recommend! Painfree and gentle!
Dr. Seitzinger did a root canal for me and was excellent! Kind, professional and informative about the procedure. His staff was also very friendly and professional as well! Highly recommend! Painfree and gentle!
54
Total Reviews
5
Average Rating
Frequently Asked Questions
When is pulp capping recommended?
Pulp capping is typically suggested when a cavity or tooth injury comes close to the tooth’s pulp but hasn’t yet caused an infection. If there’s still healthy tissue inside the tooth, this treatment can stop the damage from progressing and prevent the need for a root canal. Dr. Seitzinger and Dr. Shields use this technique to help patients preserve their natural teeth with minimal intervention.
What’s the difference between direct and indirect pulp capping?
The type of pulp capping performed depends on whether the pulp is exposed. Direct pulp capping is done when the pulp is exposed but still healthy; it involves applying a medicated material directly over the pulp to protect it. Indirect pulp capping is used when the pulp is very close to being exposed but remains covered by a thin layer of dentin. In both cases, the goal is to safeguard the pulp, prevent infection, and restore the tooth with a filling or crown.
Does pulp capping hurt or require a long recovery?
Pulp capping is a gentle, minimally invasive procedure, and most patients experience very little discomfort. The area is fully numbed during treatment to ensure your comfort, and you’ll likely return to your regular routine shortly afterward. At Purchase Endodontics, we aim to make the experience as smooth as possible while helping you avoid more complex treatments down the line.
Pulp Capping for Dental Cavities
If you're experiencing a deep cavity near the pulp, pulp capping can help preserve your tooth and avoid the need for more invasive treatments. Dr. Seitzinger and Dr. Shields offer this effective, minimally invasive procedure to restore your tooth and maintain your smile. Contact us at Purchase Endodontics in Paducah, KY to schedule a consultation and see if pulp capping is the right solution for you.