Endodontics may be necessary if the pulp inside of the root of a tooth becomes damaged, decayed, or infected. This generally arises when the root of the tooth is exposed due to deep dental decay, dental trauma, or periodontal concerns (e.g., gum recession). Endodontics aims to restore the health of the tooth to avoid tooth loss.
While there are other treatments involved with endodontics as well, the main procedure is root canal therapy. The following is a detailed review of what a dentist looks for when diagnosing a patient, the risks of leaving endodontic concerns untreated, and how the root canal therapy process in particular works.
Endodontics is the study and treatment of issues related to the dental pulp. This refers to the mass of connective tissues inside of the pulp chamber, which rests inside the root of the tooth. The primary treatment procedure that dentists perform is root canal therapy. This includes the diagnosis of infected, decayed, or damaged dental pulp. Root canal therapy involves the removal of infected or damaged pulp and filling the cavity with a material known as gutta-percha, a healthy substitute material.
The signs that indicate a root canal may be necessary are a sharp tooth pain that does not go away, tooth sensitivity, swollen gums, and a darkening of the tooth. These symptoms should not be ignored, and the patient should visit a professional for diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible after symptoms develop.
The ultimate result of not treating endodontic concerns is typically the loss of the damaged, decayed, or infected tooth. However, this can take some time, and substantial discomfort is likely to exist in the meantime, along with an increased risk of additional concerns such as the spreading of a tooth infection.
The endodontics process first begins with a diagnosis of the underlying cause of the symptoms. As mentioned, the first thing the dental professional is likely to check for is tooth decay (particularly severe decay that extends toward the tooth root), severe damage to the tooth, or signs of an oral infection.
If the tooth cannot be treated through less invasive means, a root canal is recommended. This procedure involves removing the infected or damaged portion of the tooth’s root inside of the pulp chamber and filling the tooth with a material known as gutta-percha. Many patients also require a dental crown after root canal therapy to restore the look of the tooth and protect it from further harm.
If you are experiencing deep tooth pain or have symptoms that indicate a tooth infection, then call our dental team today. We can examine the severity of the concern and make a professional treatment recommendation. If root canal therapy is the best course of action, then our team can help you through each step of the treatment process.
Request an appointment here: https://www.yourdowntownmckinneydentist.com or call Sam Patel DDS, PA at (972) 638-5848 for an appointment in our McKinney office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Endodontic Surgery in McKinney, TX.
Endodontics treatment, which is the treatment of the tooth's inner pulp and structures, is one of the most efficient ways to save decaying or damaged teeth. Many individuals, however, get anxious when they learn they need it. This is mostly due to the widespread misconception that undergoing endodontic treatment is unpleasant. It is incorrect —…
Considering undergoing endodontic care services because you think you have an abscess in one of your teeth? Good idea, as an abscessed tooth is definitely in need of professional dental treatment. Without endodontic care, an abscessed tooth will only continue to get worse, which can potentially spread the infection to other parts of your body,…
Thinking you may be in need of endodontic services? Your good overall oral health is not only important so you can have a healthy mouth, but when your oral health is in good shape, it is likely that your overall general health will be in good shape as well. This fact makes it a good…
The implant dentist you choose can have a major impact on your overall experience and the long-term results of your dental implant procedure. Every implant dentist has a unique process and a different experience level and finding one that meets your specific needs and preferences can help make the process much more convenient.By putting in…