Do you have concerns like “sensitive teeth” or “toothache”? | Consult SACHI Dental Clinic in Mita & Shibakoen

If cavities are detected and treated appropriately early on, your precious teeth can be protected. At SACHI Dental Clinic, a dentist near Mita Station and Shibakoen Station, we are committed to “minimally invasive treatment” that preserves the tooth’s nerve whenever possible, helping you maintain your important teeth in good health for a long time. This article provides a detailed explanation of cavity treatment, especially the pulp capping method used for “preserving the nerve.”

Early Detection and Treatment of Cavities is Crucial!

In the initial stages, cavities rarely show noticeable symptoms. However, if left untreated, they gradually progress, and the following symptoms appear:

• Sensitivity to cold things
• Sensitivity to sweet things
• Pain when chewing
• Throbbing pain even when doing nothing

If you experience these symptoms, it is important to visit a dental clinic as soon as possible. If treatment is started early, it often involves simple procedures, minimizing damage to the tooth. Let’s make it a habit to seek early consultation rather than ignoring it thinking, “I can still bear it…”

Cavity Treatment Flow

1. Examination: First, we thoroughly examine the condition of your mouth. X-rays are taken to check the size and depth of the cavity, the state of the nerve, etc. We also check the condition of teeth and gums through visual and tactile inspection and listen carefully to your symptoms and concerns.
2. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to minimize pain. Our clinic uses topical anesthesia and electric anesthesia injectors, aiming for the least painful anesthesia possible.
3. Cavity Removal: Using caries detection fluid, the infected part of the cavity is carefully removed. We proceed cautiously to preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible.
4. Checking Distance to Nerve: After removing the decay, the distance to the nerve is checked. The suitability of pulp capping is determined based on whether the nerve is exposed and its proximity.
5. Pulp Capping: If it is determined that the nerve can be saved, indirect or direct pulp capping is performed. Medication to protect the nerve is placed, and a temporary filling is applied for observation.
6. Provisional Diagnosis (Observation): After pulp capping, the progression of symptoms is observed for a certain period (several days to several weeks). We carefully check for pain or sensitivity and whether the nerve remains vital.
7. Restorative Treatment: If it is determined that the nerve has been successfully preserved, the final filling or crown is placed. If symptoms appear during the observation period, unfortunately, the nerve may not be savable. In that case, root canal treatment will be necessary.

Common Questions About Cavity Treatment (FAQ)

What are the advantages and disadvantages of nerve-preserving treatment?

Advantages:

• Can extend the lifespan of the tooth
• Can maintain the strength of the tooth
• Can reduce the risk of re-treatment
• Can maintain the natural sensation of the tooth

Disadvantages:

• It’s not always possible to save the nerve in every case
• The treatment period may be longer than usual cavity treatment (due to the necessary observation period)
• Pain may occur after treatment

Is pulp capping always successful?

Unfortunately, pulp capping is not 100% successful. Depending on the nerve’s condition, there is a possibility of pain occurring after treatment, or the nerve may die. However, the success rate can be increased through appropriate examination, diagnosis, and careful treatment.

How much does pulp capping cost?

Pulp capping is performed within the scope of health insurance coverage. However, the cost may vary depending on the medication and procedures used. Please feel free to inquire at our clinic for details.

How long does the treatment take?

The treatment period varies depending on the size of the cavity, the condition of the nerve, and the chosen treatment method. In the case of pulp capping, it tends to be longer than usual cavity treatment because an observation period is required. We will explain the specific timeframe during your consultation.

Is there pain?

Since local anesthesia is used during treatment, you will feel almost no pain. Temporary pain or sensitivity may occur after treatment, but in most cases, it subsides within a few days. If pain persists or is severe, please contact our clinic without hesitation.

What is the difference between saving the nerve and removing it?

A tooth that has had its nerve removed no longer feels pain but tends to become brittle and have a shorter lifespan. Discoloration of the tooth may also occur. On the other hand, a tooth with its nerve preserved can maintain its strength and lifespan, as well as its natural sensation. Preserving the nerve whenever possible is important for the health of the tooth.