What Is Pulp Capping?
Pulp capping is an endodontic treatment for cavities that are deep enough to risk exposing the pulp but not severe enough to require a root canal. This minimally invasive approach allows our team at Endodontic Associates of East Alabama to potentially save a compromised tooth while avoiding more intensive procedures. Dr. William Looney has extensive experience performing both direct and indirect pulp capping for patients in and around Auburn, AL. If your dentist has referred you for endodontic treatment, we invite you to schedule a consultation at Endodontic Associates of East Alabama to discover how we can help you improve the health and appearance of your smile.
How Is Pulp Capping Performed?
Pulp capping is typically performed with local anesthetic to ensure your comfort. After numbing the area, Dr. Looney will extract any decayed tissues inside the cavity before cleaning and disinfecting the area. If the inner pulp chamber is exposed, he will apply a medicating agent directly to the pulp to help it heal and prevent further infection (a process called direct pulp capping). Otherwise, he'll apply this agent to the remaining dentin (indirect pulp capping). Once the area is sealed, he will place a temporary filler or crown over the cavity to help preserve the tooth. You'll follow up with your regular dentist in the future to have a permanent restoration placed. It's normal to experience mild discomfort or sensitivity after a pulp capping treatment, but these effects should pass within the next few days.
What Are the Benefits of Pulp Capping?
Pulp capping offers an effective solution for maintaining your tooth's function while avoiding root canal therapy or other procedures. The benefits of pulp capping for tooth preservation include:
- Restoring the health of your tooth
- Preventing the need for a root canal
- Preserving as much natural tooth structure as possible
- Promoting healing by encouraging dentin formation
- Reducing the risk of infection and further damage
Endodontic Associates of East Alabama Reviews
Great "bedside manner" - Dr. Looney was professional, kind and attentive. He listened so carefully that he addressed questions that I hadn't actually asked, but he intuitively knew I wanted answers to. He read my forms and asked questions about my prior career, showing interest. He was kind, proactive and made sure I left my appointment with everything I needed. The procedure was done efficiently with as little discimfort as possible. I strongly recommend Dr. Looney if you want a quality and caring experience. I drove 220 miles round trip and it was well worth it!
Dr W. Looney DMD is very professional & courteous. He did great correcting my dental issues. Best pain free surgery I have had in 59 years. Staff is great as well.
Dr. Looney took great care with this very anxious patient. I would definitely see him again.
This doctor is very caring. He went above and beyond to get my pain under control. I had one root canal and continued to have pain. He saw me (without a scheduled appointment) and did another root canal on a tooth next to the first infected one. I am praying this will resolve the issues but if not, it is certainly not a reflection on Dr. Looney. He has thorough, quick and most of all, compassionate. The office personnel were great as well.
My dentist did a root canal about 20 years ago and for some reason it went bad and he recommended that I see a specialist because of the difficulty of redoing one. I choose Dr. Looney from my dentist's recommendation and because his practice accepted my Southland Dental Insurance. The Dr. and his assistants did a great job, my root canal went fine, and my insurance covered the entire amount due, I was even refunded the co-pay. I hope I never need another one, but if I do I will see Dr Looney.
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Natural Healing for Your Tooth
When a tooth's pulp is exposed or at risk but still in good condition, pulp capping offers a chance for the tooth to heal naturally. By placing a protective material over the pulp, this advanced endodontic approach encourages the formation of new dentin, promoting healing while preserving the tooth's structure. To learn more about whether pulp capping is right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Looney at Endodontic Associates of East Alabama in Auburn, AL. We offer personalized care and treatment options tailored to your needs.