Endodontics Specialist

What are Endodontics?

Endodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on maintaining the health of the soft tissue deep inside teeth, known as the pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels and other soft tissues. A patient needs endodontic treatment when deep decay, chips or cracks within the tooth, multiple dental procedures on the tooth or a faulty crown causes inflammation or infection in the pulp. Left untreated, inflammation and infection can lead to pain and even abscess. 

The word ‘endodontic’ comes from two Greek words: “endo,” which means inside and “odont,” which is the Greek word for tooth.

Endodontics save the natural tooth. This presents several advantages over pulling the tooth, including efficient chewing with a normal biting force and sensation, protection for surrounding teeth, and an appealing, natural appearance.

What are Some Types of Endodontic Procedures?

A dentist can perform a variety of endodontic procedures to treat problems occurring inside a tooth. One of the most common endodontic procedures is the root canal, which is why many people refer to endodontics as root canal therapy.

In addition to root canals, endodontics includes several other procedures, including the treatment of cracked or broken teeth. Endodontic treatments also include procedures to replant or replace knocked out or surgically removed. Lastly, the umbrella term ‘endodontics’ includes any procedure having to do with the roots of a tooth.

What Happens During a Root Canal?

Endodontics always begins with a thorough dental examination, as infections and damage to pulp may not always cause pain or other obvious symptoms.

During the root canal procedure, the dentist removes inflamed or infected pulp tissue and nerve. The dental health professional will also shape and clean the channel inside the tooth’s root before filling and sealing the tooth. In some cases, the dentist will recommend that the patient return for placement of a dental crown, which protects the affected tooth. After restoration, the tooth looks and functions like any other tooth.