According to the American Dental Association, endodontics is a branch of dentistry concerned with the prevention, diagnosis, and management of problems related to the tissues present within a tooth, the dental pulp, and the structures surrounding the tooth root.
The word endodontics stems from the Greek language, “endo” means inside, while “odont” refers to the teeth. So, endodontics involves the treatment of dental problems developing within the tooth itself.
Who is an Endodontist?
An endodontist is a dentist who has undergone an additional two to three years of training to treat dental pulp problems – the soft, nervous tissue that forms the bulk of a tooth’s interior.
What Are Some Endodontic Procedures?
The most commonly performed endodontic procedure is a root canal treatment. One of our top Chicago dentists or an endodontist will perform a root canal when the dental pulp becomes irreversibly inflamed. During a root canal, your dentist will give local anesthesia and then drill a small hole to expose the infected pulp. He or she will then use special equipment to remove the inflamed pulp, thoroughly wash the pulp cavity, disinfect it, and then fill it with an inert material to prevent reinfection. Once complete healing has taken place, your dentist will place a permanent filling over the restored tooth.
In cases when there is a severe infection within the pulp and around the roots, and multiple root canal treatments have failed, your dentist may perform a procedure called an apicoectomy. In this procedure, your dentist will remove the lower part of the infected tooth root and then place a suitable filling over it. This procedure helps manage severe endodontic infections.
Endodontists also specialize in performing endodontic surgeries, treating endodontic injuries, and placing dental implants.
When Should I See Endodontist?
Do you have a severe, uncontrolled pain in one of your teeth that does not go away even after taking painkillers – besides having swelling and sensitivity to hot or cold drinks? If yes, then you may be having a pulp infection. In such cases, you should not waste time and visit one of our top Chicago dentists or your endodontist for immediate treatment – as uncontrolled dental infections can lead to severe medical and dental complications.
Endodontic specialists are trained in saving badly damaged and infected teeth. They also specialize in providing pain-free treatment to their patients. So, if you are one of those who have dental anxiety, you might want to visit an endodontist for your treatment.
To schedule a consultation with one of our top Chicago dentists call 773-481-2200 now.
- What is endodontics?
- What do I do if I have a cracked tooth?
- What is a root canal treatment?
- What is root canal retreatment?