When endodontic treatment is needed
A tooth can cause significant pain without showing obvious outward damage. Fractures, trauma, and infection can all compromise the dental pulp — the soft tissue inside the tooth — and the resulting pain is often chronic and silent. Endodontic treatment addresses that damage at its source. Depending on the extent and the tooth involved, the goal may be to save the tooth entirely, reduce its impact on surrounding tissue, or seal and protect it from further damage.
- Root canal therapyRemoval of damaged or infected pulp, cleaning and shaping of the canal, and sealing to prevent further infection. The standard approach for saving a non-vital tooth.
- Vital pulpotomyPartial removal of the pulp in cases where viable tissue remains. Used in younger patients with recent pulp exposure where the root is still developing.
- CoronectomyIntentional removal of the tooth crown while the root is retained. Clinically indicated in specific cases where full extraction carries excessive risk.
- Crown height reductionLowering a tooth to prevent traumatic contact with opposing teeth or soft tissue. Used where the tooth is otherwise healthy but causing injury through its position.
- RestorationsRepair of tooth structure following endodontic procedures, using composite materials.
- Tooth sealingProtective sealant applied to enamel defects or worn tooth surfaces. A preventive measure for teeth at risk of further damage.
Extraction or root canal — how the decision is made
Root canal therapy
Preserves the tooth. Best for functionally important teeth — canines, carnassials — particularly in working or active dogs. Requires specialist skill and appropriate equipment. More involved than extraction at the time, but avoids the surgical extraction of a large multi-rooted tooth.
Extraction
Removes the tooth. Often the simpler resolution and a clean end to the problem. The right choice when the tooth is badly broken, the patient is older, or preservation isn’t a clinical priority. Pets adapt well to tooth loss.
The options, costs, and clinical tradeoffs are discussed at the consultation so you can make an informed decision before any treatment begins.
Every Pet Deserves A Healthy, Pain-Free Mouth
