01 What is endodontics?
Endodontics is a field of dentistry that focuses on the inner workings of teeth. While it cannot be seen in a mirror, the majority of your tooth lies below the gum line and is referred to as the root. Within the tooth and the root there are a series of tunnels that contain pulp tissue, which includes blood vessels and nerves. When a tooth is traumatized by decay or other injury, the pulp can become inflamed or diseased. In order to help address the pain and potential infection associated with this inflammation, an endodontic specialist can remove the affected pulp tissue and replacing it with a special filling material. With endodontic treatment, the goal is to preserve the natural tooth and to restore its function.
02 What sets endodontists apart?
In addition to specialty training focused on performing root canal therapy at the highest standard of care, endodontists utilize operating microscopes which allow treatment to be completed under high magnification. This enables endodontists to be highly accurate and conservative. Additionally, endodontists are able to combine their expert understanding of root canal treatment with advanced diagnostic tools, including digital radiography and small field cone beam CT scans, which offer a detailed 3-dimensional view of the tooth and surrounding bone.
03 Should I be concerned about x-rays?
We make every attempt to keep x-rays to a minimum. While they are critical for diagnosis and endodontic treatment, we employ digital radiography. In doing so, we decrease the amount of x-ray radiation by roughly 90% when compared to traditional films. We also use protective vests and advanced sensors help to further decrease x-ray exposure.
04 Will root canal treatment hurt?
We make great strides to ensure that your experience is relaxed and pain free. Following root canal treatment and endodontic surgery slight soreness is possible, but it is rare for patients to experience complications following routine treatment. In the event questions or concerns should arise, we are easily reached.
05 What happens after treatment?
Once treatment has been completed, your dentist will receive a post-operative letter detailing the treatment you received along with any recommendations. To help ensure long-term success, we ask that you schedule a final restoration with your dentist within a week or two of completing your root canal treatment. In doing so, your dentist will decide the best way to restore your tooth.
