Our Dental Experts Use Advanced Techniques to Save Your Teeth
Root canal treatments have long been the standard solution for teeth with deep cavities that extend close to the pulp, but modern advances in dentistry now offer alternatives that can preserve more of your natural tooth structure. At our dental practice in Montebello, we specialize in biomimetic dentistry—a leading edge approach that allows us to avoid root canals for many patients by using techniques such as selective cavity removal and Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) pulp capping. Here is how these methods work to save your teeth.
Why Large Cavities Near the Pulp Often Lead to Root Canal Treatments
When a cavity is left untreated, it can deepen and eventually reach the pulp, the innermost part of the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. In traditional dentistry, once decay is near the pulp, a root canal treatment is often recommended. A root canal treatment involves removing the damaged pulp to prevent infection, followed by cleaning and sealing the tooth’s inner chamber.
While this procedure is effective, it can weaken the tooth and often requires a crown to restore the anatomy of the tooth. In addition, removing the pulp means the tooth is no longer "alive" and cannot heal naturally. At our practice, we have found that root canals can often be avoided by using advanced biomimetic techniques that preserve the tooth’s natural vitality.
Biomimetic Dentistry at Our Office
What is Biomimetic Dentistry?
Biomimetic dentistry focuses on restoring teeth to their natural form and function while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible. Instead of removing large portions of the tooth, biomimetic techniques aim to preserve the tooth’s natural defenses, making it stronger and more resilient to future damage.
At our dental office, we apply these principles to avoid invasive treatments such as root canals. By focusing on selective cavity removal and using bioactive materials, we can restore the tooth while keeping it as close to its original state as possible.
Selective Cavity Removal: Preserving the Tooth’s Natural Defenses
In traditional dentistry, treating a deep cavity typically involves removing not only the decayed portion of the tooth but also a significant amount of surrounding healthy tissue. This approach can weaken the tooth, increasing the risk of further complications.
Selective cavity removal, which we practice at our office, is a more conservative approach. We carefully remove only the decayed tissue, leaving healthy enamel and dentin intact. This technique preserves the natural structure of the tooth and helps maintain its protective function, reducing the likelihood of needing a root canal treatment. This method has allowed us to help many patients avoid root canals and dental crowns.
What is Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) and Why We Use It in Our Practice
What is MTA?
Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) is a bioactive material that is used in pulp capping, a procedure that protects the pulp after decay has been removed. MTA encourages the growth of new dentin, the hard tissue that forms the bulk of the tooth, and creates a strong seal that keeps bacteria out of the tooth.
Compared to older materials, such as calcium hydroxide, MTA has a higher success rate in promoting the tooth’s natural healing process. It helps prevent infection and preserves the vitality of the tooth.
How MTA Helps Our Patients Avoid Root Canals
At our practice, we use MTA in pulp capping procedures when decay is close to the pulp but has not yet caused irreversible damage. After carefully removing the decayed tissue, we place MTA over the pulp to form a protective barrier. This allows the pulp to heal naturally and helps prevent infection.
MTA encourages the formation of a new layer of dentin, which seals the pulp chamber and keeps the tooth alive. Many patients who come to our office with deep cavities find that they do not need a root canal treatment after all because of MTA’s ability to protect and heal the pulp.
How to Prevent a Root Canal by Use of Pulp Capping to Save a Tooth?
Pulp capping with MTA is an effective treatment for teeth with deep decay as long as the pulp is still alive and not significantly infected. When we assess the tooth during the procedure, we perform tests that will indicate that the tooth is still vital and capable of healing with the help of MTA.
We carefully evaluate each patient to determine whether pulp capping is the best option. If the decay is too advanced, or if the pulp is too damaged, a root canal may still be necessary. However, many patients who are initially told they need a root canal find that biomimetic techniques can save their tooth.
Long Term Benefits of Biomimetic Dentistry
The long term benefits of biomimetic dentistry are significant. By preserving more of the tooth’s natural structure, we reduce the likelihood of future fractures and complications. The tooth remains stronger and more functional over time, helping to avoid the need for further treatments.
At our office, we focus on providing minimally invasive dental care that maintains the integrity of your teeth. By using biomimetic techniques such as selective cavity removal and MTA pulp capping, we ensure that your teeth stay healthy and strong for years to come.
Protecting Teeth for Life at Our Dental Office
Our team of dental professionals is dedicated to offering the highest quality care using the latest techniques in biomimetic dentistry. By using selective cavity removal and MTA pulp capping, we have helped many patients avoid root canal treatments and dental crowns while maintaining the natural strength and vitality of their teeth.
If you have been told you need a root canal, or if you are concerned about a deep cavity, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with us. Dr. David Hakham will thoroughly assess your situation and determine the best treatment option for you. You can call our office at (323) 728-0241 or book an appointment on our website today to learn how we can help you avoid invasive treatments and keep your teeth healthy for life.
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