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| The word "endodontic" comes from "endo"
meaning inside and "odont" meaning tooth. Like many medical
terms, it's Greek. All dentists are trained in diagnosis
and endodontic therapy, however, some teeth can be especially
difficult to diagnose and treat. That’s why you may have
been referred to an endodontic specialist. In addition to
dental school, endodontists receive two or more years of
advanced education in this kind of treatment. They study
root canal techniques and procedures in greater depth, for
diagnosis and treatment of more difficult cases. For this
reason, many dentists choose to refer their patients to
endodontists. |
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Endodontics is a specialty of Dentistry that
deals with diseases of the dental pulp and its supporting
structures. Endodontists are Dentists with special post-graduate
training in this field. Endodontists are also experienced
at finding the cause of oral and facial pain that has been
difficult to diagnose. Although General Dentists can perform
Endodontic treatment, patients are often referred to an
Endodontist when the case is complicated or more difficult
than usual.
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| In order to understand Endodontic
treatment, it helps to know something about the anatomy
of a tooth. Teeth have several layers. The outside layer
of the tooth is composed of a hard layer called Enamel.
Enamel is supported by an inner layer called Dentin, which
has at its center a soft tissue known as the Pulp. The pulp
contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue that
are responsible for forming the surrounding Dentin and Enamel
during tooth development. The pulp receives its nourishment
supply from vessels which enter the end of the root. Although
the pulp is important during development of the tooth, it
is not necessary for function of the tooth. The tooth continues
to be nourished by the tissues surrounding it even after
the pulp is removed. |
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Endodontic treatment is necessary
when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected. The most common
reasons for inflammation or infection are deep cavities
(caries), repeated dental procedures, cracks or chips. Trauma
can also cause inflammation and often shows up as discoloration
of the tooth. If pulp inflammation or infection is left
untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess. |
| In order to understand
Endodontic treatment, it helps to know something about the
anatomy of a tooth. Teeth have several layers. The outside
layer of the tooth is composed of a hard layer called Enamel.
Enamel is supported by an inner layer called Dentin, which
has at its center a soft tissue known as the Pulp. The pulp
contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue that
are responsible for forming the surrounding Dentin and Enamel
during tooth development. The pulp receives its nourishment
supply from vessels which enter the end of the root. Although
the pulp is important during development of the tooth, it
is not necessary for function of the tooth. The tooth continues
to be nourished by the tissues surrounding it even after
the pulp is removed. |
| Signs and Symptoms |
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| Indications for treatment include
prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, discoloration of
the tooth, swelling or tenderness of the tooth or adjacent
gums. Sometimes there are no symptoms. |
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| The Endodontist removes the inflammed or
infected pulp, carefully cleans and shapes the canal system
and then seals the prepared space. Many treatments are now
performed in a single appointment ranging from 2 - 2.5 hours
(depending on the number of canals) but degree of inflammation
and infection will determine the number of visits. Antibiotic
medication is placed between visits (usually 2 - 3 weeks)
which may help in removal of difficult to instrument areas.
Once treatment is completed, you may be instructed to return
to your dentist for permanent reconstruction. The restoration
of the tooth is an important part of treatment because it
seals the cleaned canals from the oral environment, protects
the tooth and restores it to function. |
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| Toothache pain is the main reason for patients
seeking treatment. Fortunately, modern anesthetics can make
the procedure pain free in most cases. Seeking treatment
early makes the procedure more comfortable, so don't wait.
When caught early, treatment should feel no different than
having a regular filling. For the first few days after treatment,
there may be some sensitivity to biting pressure, especially
if there was pain or infection before the procedure. Sometimes
over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications (like Advil)
are recommended for a day or two. Dr. Carr can prescribe
other medications but they are rarely required. |
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