Approximately 91 percent of American adults ages 20 to 64 suffer from cavities.
Dental decay is one of the most infectious, non-communicative diseases worldwide, according to the Centers for Disease Control. When decay gets out of hand, it can affect the nerve and a root canal is typically recommended.
The root canal procedure involves the removal of the tooth’s blood and nerve supply due to infection from cavities. While the tooth is then considered dead, the tooth is still set in the jaw. Root canals are safe and effective, but saving the living tooth is ideal.
Vital pulp cryotherapy is an alternative procedure that can save the living tooth tissue in some cases. Sterile ice is placed on exposed tooth pulp once decay is removed. The pulp’s temperature is lowered, reducing post-treatment pain and inflammation. Once the pulp has been cooled, a bioactive filling material and a permanent tooth filling are placed in the tooth. The blood and nerve supply are not removed in this procedure.
Listen as Dr. James Bahcall joins Dr. Susanne Bennett to discuss vital pulp cryotherapy.
Vital Pulp Cryotherapy: Root Canal Alternative
Can you save your tooth's nerves and blood instead of having a root canal?
Additional Info
- Segment Number: 1
- Audio File: wellness_for_life/wl399.mp3
- Featured Speaker: James Bahcall, DMD, MS
- Guest Website: James Bahcall, DMD, MS
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Guest Bio:
Dr. James Bahcall is a Clinical Professor at the University of Illinois-Chicago School of Dentistry in the Department of Endodontics. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics and is a Fellow in both the International and American College of Dentists. He has pioneered fiber optic and endoscopic visualization in the field of endodontics. Dr. Bahcall has also co-pioneered polymer-based rotary files and ultrasonic endodontic instruments. He is currently working on clinical studies in vital pulp cryotherapy and endodontic bioactive regeneration. Dr. Bahcall has been the recipient of outstanding teaching awards and has published numerous scientific articles, as well as written chapters for endodontic textbooks. He serves as a member of the Scientific Advisory Boards of the Journal of Endodontics, European Journal of General Dentistry, Compendium and Inside Dentistry. Dr. Bahcall lectures on endodontics both nationally and internationally.
- Length (mins): 25:16
- Waiver Received: Yes
- Internal Notes: no social media
- Host: Susanne Bennett, DC
Published in
Wellness for Life
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