Protecting teeth from severe damage; preserving deeply inflamed or infected teeth with pulp therapy

The pulp at the tooth’s center comprises nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. Essential to healthy development, the pulp nourishes the maturing tooth. Mature teeth can be preserved by removing the damaged pulp tissue. After the inside of the tooth has been cleaned and reshaped, it is “sealed off” and eventually restored with a dental crown. This process is referred to as “Children’s root canal therapy.” These and other forms of “vital and non-vital pulp therapy” are available at Mona Dental for Kids in Spring, Texas. 

The importance of prevention 

Led by Dr. Mona Houshiar, our team emphasizes preventative visits. Problems that cause damage to the innermost pulp structure of teeth occur gradually. 

We encourage parents and caregivers to get their children into a healthy routine of consistent dental check-ups. The idea is to catch problems like dental decay before they cause damage. Our dental hygienists also clean children’s teeth. Professional cleanings remove surface stains, bacteria, and plaque. Once plaque builds up, it can only be removed by our professionals with specialized tools. 

Symptoms of deep or serious decay include: 

• Sharp or jarring pain when your child bites down, especially on hard foods
• Persistent pain, especially after consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages
• Severe pressure, swollen gum tissue, and tenderness to the touch, which could be the sign of an infection or abscess

Pulp therapy may be the only way to preserve a child’s severely decayed, infected, or deeply inflamed tooth. However, we do not want to be in a position to start “pulling teeth” so early into children’s lives. As noted, the pulp is not necessary for the function and health of a fully matured tooth. Once the source of the inflammation or infection — the pulp — is removed, our patients get much-needed pain relief (there are no nerves to “sense” damage and produce pain). Furthermore, the treated tooth is “saved” safely and predictably. 

Pulp therapy may also be recommended for baby teeth. We must preserve primary teeth, even though they are temporary. They play a vital role in the development of permanent teeth. 

Call without delay to schedule an appointment at Mona Dental for Kids. Our office in Spring, TX, can be reached at (832) 662-3008 or request an appointment using the button on this website.

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