What is endodontics?
Dentists use endodontic procedures to preserve a compromised tooth from the inside. Procedures involve using special tools and protocols to safely remove inflamed or infected tissue, or pulp, inside the tooth before filling and sealing the tooth. A mature tooth can survive without its pulp because the surrounding tissues continue to nurture it.
A mature tooth can survive without its pulp because the surrounding tissues continue to nurture it.
The most common endodontic treatment is a root canal. Millions of teeth are treated and saved each year with a root canal. The goal of endodontics is to save the natural tooth so there’s no need for an extraction or tooth replacement.
After endodontic treatment, a restoration, such as a crown, is commonly placed on the tooth to protect it and restore its full function.
What are the benefits of endodontics?
Endodontic procedures help save a tooth. Some of the benefits of these procedures include:
- Increasing retention rate of natural teeth
- Limited additional intervention needed
- Preferred over a tooth extraction
- Minimal discomfort and relatively fast recovery
- No need for costly tooth replacements
When should I see an endodontist?
You need to see an endodontist if you’re experiencing symptoms such as:
- Persistent toothache
- Redness
- Swelling
- Extreme tooth sensitivity
- Pus or visible signs of infection around a tooth
How does endodontic surgery work?
Endodontists use special instruments and tools to remove inflamed or infected pulp tissue and the tooth’s root. The inside of the root canal is then cleaned and shaped, and sealed with a filling material. If necessary, the tooth is covered with a dental crown.
Dr. Jones performs this quick and usually painless procedure under local anesthesia and it only requires one visit.
What can I expect with root canal therapy?
Root canal therapy isn’t as painful as it might sound and many patients are surprised to find out how easy it is to get relief from their pain and restore their tooth. Dr. Jones performs the procedure in one visit and will give you post-op instructions to ensure healthy healing.
Following a root canal, you may experience:
- Tooth sensitivity
- Discomfort in the treatment area
- A temporary change in how your tooth feels in your mouth
All of the above will pass within a few days or weeks. The discomfort is easily treated with over-the-counter pain medications. But, if pain or pressure persist for more than a few days, you need to contact Dr. Jones to make sure a complication has not arisen.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of a root canal, you need an oral evaluation. Call Dr. Jones’ practice or schedule an appointment online.
