Root Canals

Endodontics

Endodontics is a field of dentistry that focuses on problems concerning the inside of the teeth.

Tooth Anatomy

The Need for Endodontic Treatment

When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed, endodontic treatment may be needed. This infection may be due to tooth decay, a chip in the tooth that lets bacteria in, or damage due to repeated dental procedures on the tooth. In some cases, a hard blow to the tooth can damage the pulp even when there are no visible chips in the tooth.

You may have an infected pulp if you feel pain in your teeth or extended periods of sensitivity to hot or cold food. Your tooth may also discolor, while the gums near the tooth may swell and become tender. It’s even possible for pulp damage to occur and yet you don’t feel any of the symptoms.

The Endodontic Treatment

To treat the infected pulp, your endodontist can remove the inflamed pulp from your teeth. The area is then carefully cleaned and then shaped before it is filled. It’s then sealed and covered with a crown to prevent the bacteria from coming back into the inside of your tooth. Afterwards, your tooth should function normally again.

During the treatment, you won’t experience any pain while the pulp is removed. Afterwards, your tooth may feel a bit sensitive for a few days, and this is more likely if you have already felt pain or tooth sensitivity before treatment.

In general, most endodontic treatments are successful and your tooth’s normal function will return. But it’s also possible for the infection to return, which may require another endodontic treatment.