What is Endodontics?  It is the branch of dentistry that specializes in treating diseases of the dental pulp.  Endodontic Root canal treatment is necessary for infected or inflamed pulp to save the tooth.

If you have tooth pain, it is possible that you may need Root Canal Therapy.   Root Canals are a safe and comfortable way to preserve damaged teeth without the need for extraction.

WHEN DOES ROOT CANAL THERAPY MAKE SENSE? When a tooth hurts, there are a few reasons that might result in the need for root canal therapy.   Each tooth, while covered in enamel can sometime be penetrated by bacteria.   Under the enamel is dentin, which is a softer and sensitive part of the tooth. In middle you will find pulp which contains soft tissue.   This tissue is made of nerves and blood vessels.  The canals are important to keep healthy as they provide a way for the root to get nutrients and get rid of toxins. If a cavity occurs, the root canals and the pulp are prone to infection, which causes pain.  A root canal is typically a better option to extraction as pulling the tooth can lead to alignment and spacing changes in your smile. Saving your natural teeth is ideal and cheaper than replacing them.

WARNING SIGNS INCLUDE:  Aches and pain – especially when biting or chewing, swollen or sores on the gums, sensitivity to cold and heat.

WHAT TO EXPECT?

• The tooth area will be numbed for comfort
• Sedation is an option, and should be discussed with DHC
• Once numb, your tooth’s nerve or pulp is removed from the chamber and the canal
• Each root canal is cleaned, shaped and disinfected so that it can be filled
• Medicine may be put in the chamber to treat the infection
• The treated root canals are filled with a rubber-like material to seal them
• A temporary filling is placed to protect against further infection, sometime antibiotics prescribed
• A return visit to complete a permanent filling or crown will be scheduled

Call DHC today if you are experiencing any dental pain as waiting to do so can cause additional damage to your tooth!