735 Main Rd, Edgeworth,
NSW, 2285
Pulp Capping: Georgia’s
Subtle Signs, Serious Impact
Georgia, a graceful greyhound, was already showing signs of discomfort at just under two years old. Her carers noticed she was mouth-shy, reluctant to be touched around her face, and something was visibly off about her jaw.
Her lower jaw (mandible) appeared shorter than the upper jaw (maxilla), and her lower canine teeth were pressing inwards, causing trauma to the roof of her mouth. This wasn’t just cosmetic. It was painful, and it would only worsen over time.
Understanding the Problem
Georgia was diagnosed with a severe Class 2 malocclusion, where the alignment between her upper and lower jaws was significantly imbalanced. Her lower canines were in lingual version, which meant they angled inward and pierced the palate, creating ongoing pain and the risk of further damage.
At Edgeworth Animal Medical Centre, we knew early intervention was essential to relieve her discomfort and preserve her long-term oral health and functionality.
Pulp Capping: A Tailored Dental Solution
The Edgeworth Animal Medical Centre team performed a crown height reduction with vital pulp capping. This advanced dental procedure involves shortening the offending teeth to prevent trauma, while carefully protecting and preserving the tooth’s vitality. After trimming the canines to the correct height, the exposed pulp was treated with a special medicated layer to encourage natural dentin growth and then sealed with further protective layers. This approach allowed Georgia to retain her canine teeth, which are essential for jaw strength and supporting the tongue, while preventing further trauma to the roof of her mouth.
“Shortening the tooth prevented further damage, but it also meant Georgia got to keep her canines strong and functional, it’s a win–win when the procedure is successful.”
- Dr Nicole Melhem.Recovery with Caution
Georgia was sent home with anti-inflammatory medication and a tailored recovery plan. She healed well in the short term, but this treatment requires longer-term monitoring. A six-month follow-up with dental X-rays showed the best possible news: the pulp chambers in both canine teeth continued to develop evenly, and fresh dentin was forming. These were all strong signs that the procedure had worked.
Ongoing Care and Monitoring
Because vital pulp capping can still fail months or years after the procedure, Georgia must avoid hard chews and undergo annual dental x-rays to monitor her teeth’s health. If anything changes, her care team will be ready, but things are going beautifully for now.
“She hasn’t had any mouth pain since the procedure,” Georgia’s owner shared. “We’re so relieved, and so grateful.”
A Brighter, Pain-Free Future
Georgia’s story is a powerful example of how early, expert intervention in veterinary dentistry can dramatically improve a pet’s quality of life. Her case also highlights the importance of regular oral checks and working with a team experienced in pulp capping. Thanks to her dedicated owners and the Edgeworth Animal Medical Centre team, Georgia can live without discomfort, just as every dog deserves. Contact us today, to find out how we can help your pet live it’s best life.
Veterinary Services
Trusted veterinary care across every life stage, from vaccinations and surgery to diagnostics, dental, and exotic care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is pulp capping in dogs, and when is it used?
Pulp capping is a veterinary dental procedure that protects a tooth’s pulp (nerve and blood supply) after it’s been exposed, often due to trauma or crown height reduction for malocclusion. It allows the tooth to heal and remain functional, which is especially important for major structural teeth like canines.
Why would a young dog need pulp capping?
In young dogs like Georgia, severe malocclusion (where teeth grow in misaligned) can cause pain, damage the palate, and lead to long-term dental issues. Pulp capping offers a way to relieve discomfort while preserving the tooth and avoiding extraction or root canal surgery.
How successful is pulp capping for dogs?
Pulp capping has a high success rate when performed early and followed by proper aftercare. At Edgeworth Vet Medical Centre, we use ongoing X-rays to monitor healing. In Georgia’s case, healthy dentin continued to grow post-op, an excellent indicator of long-term success.
What aftercare is required following pulp capping?
Your pet will need pain relief for a few days and annual dental check-ups with X-rays to monitor the treated teeth. Chew toys and hard treats should be avoided to prevent damaging the capped teeth.
Google Rating
4.7
I would like to say a massive thank you to Dr Nicole and the rest of the team for fitting in our dog for a torn dew claw this morning on such short notice. Ashlee on the phone was so lovely and quick to make the appointment for me. Our girl was treated with such care and we are very grateful 💕
Tiarna H.
Google Rating
4.7
Best vets I’ve ever been to with rabbits! Vet was so kind, gentle & knowledgeable. She not only looked after the unwell bunny, but also took our other bunnies at home into consideration. All staff were so helpful. The follow up phone call & sympathy card were so appreciated & such a beautiful touch. Will never take our pets anywhere else after such an amazing experience! 🩷
La fee
Google Rating
4.7
I was referred to Edgeworth vets as they have experience with bunnies and took my rabbit Ross there, he was old and not able to be saved so I had make the hard decision to have him put to sleep. The staff there were so kind and the vet I saw Kimberly was amazing. She was very kind and supportive and so gentle with Ross. I was able to stay with him while he passed and she talked me through everything. I’m so grateful to them that they helped Ross pass in a peaceful manner and cannot recommend them highly enough.
Katherine J.
Google Rating
4.7
Got recommended this business today for a very sick bunny, they got her straight in and were amazing. They kept us updated with care and compassion and although we lost our beautiful girl they were amazing. Would highly recommend this business and staff.
Thank you for caring and trying to save our sweet girl.
Peta L.
Google Rating
4.7
Thank you for the compassion your staff provided on Friday. ALL your staff were so lovely to us. We weren’t a regular client but you guys accommodated us, were empathetic and helped us in a really difficult time. I’m so thankful that I called and would highly recommend this veterinary service.
Jon B.
Google Rating
4.7
Booked it our new kitten for his first vet visit after we purchased him. The staff was so helpful and nice, plus they help us out after he did not enjoy the car trip very much. But they made him feel welcome and helped me out. The vet we sure was so helpful and answered all our questions. They even gave us a little info pack about our kitten etc. They were recommended to us by a good friend and I would 100% recommend them to anyone that has a pet that needs a caring vet.
Ian K.
Google Rating
4.7
These guys truly care. I couldn’t get my rabbit into his usual vet, however, they took him. Unfortunately it was the end of the journey for Boris and they were helpful, compassionate and loving the whole way. I even got a sympathy card 2 weeks later. Thank you for your love and care.
Kristy H.
Google Rating
4.7
Fantastic vets, we have been bringing our chickens here for 3 years now and have no complaints. Recently moved our cats to Edgeworth as well. All vets we have seen here have been great as well as the vet nurses. The receptionists are very helpful, its a releif to walk in the door and know that our pets are going to be well looked after.
Annette F.
Google Rating
4.7
Thank you for the beautiful card and condolences to our family after losing a battle with Jet. She tried so hard and fought like a little champion that she was. Thank you for your ongoing support, care, advice, and strength you showed to us, so that we could be strong. Unfortunately, little Jet succumbed to her many health issues but is now pain free. We will be under Edgeworth Animal Hospital for all of feathered family members. I couldn’t have asked for more
Debbie H.
Google Rating
4.7
I had an emergency with my cat, and came without an appointment. I was seen straight away. Every single interaction I had with the lovely people at this vet was amazing. They are so kind and go 110% for your fur baby. They went above and beyond and made this cat dad feel like everything was going to be ok. I cannot thank them enough.
James D.
Contact Info
After-Hours Emergencies
Contact AREC(Animal Referral & Emergency Centre)
1300 838 669