Meeting with an endodontist is the first step in getting the dental care you need. During your initial appointment, the endodontist will examine the affected tooth or teeth, as well as the adjacent teeth. This may include mild knocking that patients typically tolerate well. After all tests have been done, the endodontist will make a diagnosis and discuss treatment options with you.
The endodontist may fill the root canal with a rubber substance that acts as a bandage and then fill the tooth opening with a temporary crown or filling. After the procedure, you may experience mild pain. You will return to the endodontist at a later date to have your temporary crown or filling removed and a permanent one placed. Your initial visit to an endodontist is important, as it lays the foundation for your future treatment.
It will consist of a thorough review of your medical and dental history, as well as an evaluation of your symptoms. The endodontist may review existing x-rays or request additional x-rays and 3D images to make an accurate diagnosis. Based on their findings, you'll receive a treatment plan recommendation and have the opportunity to ask questions about your diagnosis and treatment. You should see an endodontist if you need an apicectomy or treatment for a root canal or a broken tooth that is beyond the experience of a general dentist.
Depending on the stage of root development, the dentist or endodontist may start root canal treatment a week or two later. Inflammation or bacterial infection of the pulp is the most common reason people see an endodontist. In this microsurgical procedure, they open the gum tissue near the tooth to see the underlying bone and remove any inflamed or infected tissue. An endodontist is a highly trained dental professional who solves problems within the tooth using specialized techniques.
If the tooth breaks out of its cavity or falls out completely, they can place it back in the socket, stabilize it, and often perform root canal treatment on it. Endodontists also have experience in finding the cause of oral and facial pain that has been difficult to diagnose. In an immature permanent tooth, they can stimulate continued root growth by providing blood supply to the tooth and utilizing stem cells in the region. Occasionally, a non-surgical root canal procedure alone cannot save the tooth and surgery may be recommended by your endodontist.
A consultation visit with an endodontist is important, as it allows you to better understand what you need for good oral health. Learning more about what an endodontist can do for you is a good idea when you have problems with one or more teeth.
