Apex Dog and Cat Dentistry
945 W. Jefferson Ave.
Englewood, CO 80110
(303) 810-6029
[email protected]
Vital pulp therapy (VP) is the treatment of the tooth pulp with the intention of keeping it alive (i.e. "vital"). This differs from root canal treatment in which the pulp, the living part of the tooth, is completely removed.
VP is restricted to specific conditions:
Vital pulp therapy is performed in as close to a sterile fashion as possible A superficial layer of the pulp is removed ("freshened") to remove surface bacteria and unhealthy inflamed tissue. A medicated pulp dressing is then placed directly on the newly exposed pulp to stimulate healing and provide anti-bacterial properties. Finally, a protective barrier of dental composite is placed - similar to what a dentist would fill a cavity with in people.
As with any endodontic treatment, follow-up x-rays are needed approximately 6 months after a procedure to determine successful versus unsuccessful outcome.