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
Am I A Candidate For Pulp Capping?
Candidates for pulp capping are individuals with deep cavities that are close to the pulp but have not yet caused significant infection or irreversible damage. If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, pain, or visible decay near the pulp, you may be a good candidate for this procedure. Early intervention with pulp capping can save your natural tooth and prevent the need for more extensive treatments down the line. During a consultation at Purchase Endodontics, our team will carefully evaluate your condition to determine the best course of action.
Purchase Endodontics Reviews
Dr Shields is an excellent Endodontis. She tells you everything she does. I had a root canal in 2021. No pain. Had to have another root canal Sept 2025. No pain. I wouldn’t go anywhere else. I recommend her to everyone.
Incredibly kind and thoughtful staff! I called for an appointment and had one the next day. They took such great care of my child. She was a little nervous, and they talked both of us through the entire appointment. Dr. Daniela Shields worked so fast and efficiently.
I just had a root Canal completed today and the entire process was painless and seamless. I have a ton of dental anxiety and I cannot say enough For Dr. Seitzinger and his assistant, which I feel awful I’ve forgotten her name. She was amazing as well. I will definitely be telling anyone that requires a root canal to give them a call again thank you all so very much. Sincerely, John Mckeown
I really had the best experience with Dr Scott D. Seitzinger and the wonderful staff in his office. Two root canals later I highly recommend him!! It was pain free and he was such a joy to interact with.
In 63 Years, I have NEVER met a Dentist as kind as Dr. Seitzinger! He, has set the BAR so high NO other Dentist will be remotely able too IMPRESS Me !Pastor Cave
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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.