Reston Regenerative Endodontics & Vital Pulp Therapy
Dealing with severe tooth decay? Explore root canal alternatives
Preserve and revitalize your natural tooth
When the inside of a tooth is damaged, whether from decay, injury, or infection, it doesn’t always need a root canal or extraction. Regenerative endodontics and vital pulp therapy are advanced, evidence-based treatments that help preserve or restore the health of your tooth’s pulp.
Using the latest techniques and materials, we can stimulate healing, reduce the need for invasive treatment, and support long-term tooth development, especially in younger patients.
Vital Pulp Therapy
When the pulp inside your tooth is inflamed but still alive, vital pulp therapy (VPT) offers a conservative alternative to root canal treatment. We remove the damaged or decayed portion of the tooth, place a biocompatible material to protect the healthy pulp, and seal it to encourage healing. This approach helps preserve the tooth’s natural vitality, stimulates dentin repair, and maintains normal function.
Regenerative Endodontic Therapy
For immature teeth with necrotic (non-vital) pulp, regenerative endodontic therapy focuses on restoring living tissue rather than removing it. After disinfecting the canal with minimal instrumentation, we induce controlled bleeding to create a scaffold for stem cell activity. This process promotes the regeneration of pulp-like tissue and allows the root to continue developing — strengthening the tooth over time.
When vital pulp or regenerative treatment may be recommended
- NThe tooth is still developing, often in children or teens
- NThe pulp is inflamed but not irreversibly damaged
- NThe pulp is non-vital, but the root tip is still open (wide apex)
- NThe goal is to preserve natural tooth structure and avoid root canal therapy
 Do you need root canal alternatives?
Stay on the edge of innovation with therapies that help preserve your natural tooth. Here’s how we determine the right path forward:
- NComprehensive Evaluation – We start with a detailed exam and digital imaging, including 3D CBCT scans when appropriate.
- NPulp Vitality Testing – We assess the condition of your tooth’s pulp to determine if it's inflamed, infected, or non-vital.
- NCustomized Treatment Plan – Based on your diagnosis, age, and tooth development stage, we’ll recommend either vital pulp therapy, regenerative care, or another endodontic option.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the goal of these treatments?
To save your natural tooth. Whether we’re preserving healthy pulp or encouraging new tissue growth, the goal is always to avoid more invasive procedures and keep your tooth functioning long-term.
Do these treatments work for baby teeth?
Yes, especially vital pulp therapy. It can help preserve a baby tooth until it’s ready to fall out naturally, avoiding early loss that could affect spacing and development.
Can adult teeth really regenerate?
Yes, in some cases. While regenerative therapy is most effective in younger patients, advances in endodontics now allow us to restore function—even in certain mature teeth—by stimulating natural healing.
How is this different from a root canal?
Root canals remove all the pulp tissue. Vital pulp therapy and regenerative endodontics aim to preserve or rebuild healthy pulp. The approach we recommend depends on the condition of your tooth and your stage of development.
Are these therapies covered by insurance?
Coverage varies, but many insurance plans recognize these procedures under endodontic care. Our team will help you understand your benefits before treatment.
Exceptional care in Reston, all the time!
We’ve reimagined the entire endodontic experience to help you feel calm, supported, and confident. With advanced technology, gentle techniques, and comforting amenities like aromatherapy, streaming entertainment, and cozy blankets, we make healing feel effortless.
Connect with us
11800 Sunrise Valley Dr., Suite #250
Reston, VA 20191
Get Directions
Monday–Friday: 8:30am–5:00pm
- (703) 429-9926
Ready to experience pain-free
endodontic care?
