What is Endodontic Treatmnet?

To understand endodontic treatment, it helps to know something about the anatomy of the tooth, inside the tooth, under the white enamel and a hard layer called the dentin, is a soft tissue called the pulp. The pulp contains blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue and creates the surrounding hard tissues of the tooth during development.

Why would I need an Endodontic Procedure

Endodontic treatment is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected. The inflammation or infection can have a variety of causes, deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or a crack or chip  in the tooth. IN addition a blow to a tooth may cause pulp damage even if the tooth has no visible chips or cracks. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess.

How does Endodontic treatment save the tooth?

The dentist removes the inflamed or infected pulp, carefully cleans and shapes the inside of the tooth, then fills and seals the space. The dentist will place a crown or other restoration on the tooth to protect and restore it to the full function. After restoration, the tooth continues to function like any other tooth.

Will I feel pain during or after the procedure?

Many root canal procedures are performed to relieve the pain of toothaches caused by pulp inflammation or infection. With modern techniques and anesthetics, most patients report that they are comfortable during the procedure.

For the first few days after treatment, your tooth may feel tender, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. The discomfort can be relieved with over-the-counter or prescription medications.

Your tooth may continue to feel slightly different from your other teeth for some time after your root canal treatment is completed. However, if you have severe pain or pressure, or pain that lasts more than a few days, call us immediately.

If the tooth lacks sufficient structure to hold the restoration in place, your endodontist may place a post inside the tooth.