Endodontics is one of the many different branches of dentistry. This particular branch focuses on the dental pulp and tissues that surround the roots of the teeth. Endodontic treatments are more commonly known as root canal treatments, but they do much more than the standard root canal procedure. Endodontists save teeth!
To become an Endodontist, a licensed dentist must complete at least two years of additional schooling in the specific field. Different procedures and techniques regarding the root canal are studied in great depth in order to understand both simple and complex cases.
It is necessary to have endodontic appointments when the pulp appear inflamed or the root canals that house the pulp become infected. Typical situations that cause inflammation and infection are trauma, decay, fractures, cracks, and multiple or repeated dental procedures. One may experience sensitivity to temperature, biting sensitivity, throbbing pain, swelling, tooth discoloration, or tenderness if these situations may be occurring. Other times, there are no symptoms and the patient finds out about their condition at their regularly scheduled appointment. If left untreated, the tooth may be lost.
At Mohip Dental, we pride ourselves on both our Endodontic treatments themselves, as well as the outcome for our patients. We have been practicing in the endodontic field for many years, and that experience shines through in our patients smiles! Our skilled staff will provide great treatment, utilizing the latest technology like an Endo Microscope, while explaining the reason that endodontic treatment is required. When patients understand why they are in need of a certain treatment, what options are available, and what the procedure entails, it puts them at ease and gives them a sense of what to expect.
When it comes to the root canal procedure, it is important to know all aspects of what you will be going through.
- The tooth and the area around it will be numbed with a local anesthetic.
- A dental dam will be inserted to segregate the infected tooth from the rest of the mouth.
- A small hole is drilled in order to ecpse the pump chamber and root canal.
- The compromised pulp tissue is removed.
- The pulp chamber and root canal are cleaned out.
- Antiseptic is used on the canals to disinfect the area.
- Root canal fillings are selected to fit into the canals to prevent bacteria from forming.
- A filler is used to seal the access hole, and the dental dam is taken out.
- An antibiotic is administered to treat or prevent infection.
- A permanent filling or crown may be needed to provide a complete seal of the tooth and allow it to keep the structure.
After having a root canal, sleep with you head a bit elevated, rinse with warm salt water a few times per day, take prescribed medicine, use ice packs on your cheek to reduce swelling, and brush gently!
The Good:
- -Your tooth does not have to be pulled.
- -You can keep your own tooth, and it will function normally.
- -You will not lose the bone around the tooth.
- – Pain and discomfort will subside.
- -Infection will disappear.
- -Teeth will not shift.
The Not-So-Good:
- -The treated tooth may become brittle after the procedure.
- -The treated tooth will be more prone to fractures and may require a crown.
- -A root canal procedure is more expensive than pulling the tooth.
- -The root canal procedure takes a few hours and may require more than one visit. (Mohip Dental also specializes in retreatment of root canals.)
When deciding if a root canal procedure will benefit you specifically, it is important to get the opinion of a professional. At Mohip Dental, consultations are available to determine what procedure will work best for you, based on the severity of you condition and the outcome that you desire.
