Endodontic treatments and procedures are specialized dental treatments that are performed by endodontists, a type of dental specialist. Endodontists are highly trained professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases of the dental pulp and root canal system. The most common endodontic procedure is root canal therapy, which is used to treat an infection in one of the teeth. During the procedure, the endodontist will make a small hole in the tooth, remove the infected pulp, clean and shape the inside of the tooth, fill it with special dental material, and seal it.
Other endodontic treatments include endodontic retreatment, endodontic surgery, traumatic dental injuries, and dental implants. Endodontic retreatment is necessary when a patient who has already undergone root canal treatment experiences reinfection or requires additional treatment. Endodontic surgery (also known as apical surgery or apicectomy) is used when a tooth has not responded to root canal treatment or retreatment. During this surgery, the infected root tip (apex) is removed, along with surrounding tissue.
Endodontists also have experience in treating fractured teeth. Depending on the category of fracture, an endodontist will decide on the type of treatment needed to repair the cracked tooth. This may include making a small incision in the gums to access the root of the tooth. General dentists can perform endodontic procedures in conjunction with other dental procedures, but they often refer patients who need endodontic treatment to endodontists.
Endodontists have completed two or more additional years of training beyond dental school, allowing them to focus on diagnosing tooth pain and treating the root canal and other procedures related to the inside of the tooth. The only way to know if you need endodontic services is to schedule an appointment with an endodontist so that you can undergo a full oral evaluation. If you have a toothache and think you could benefit from the services of an endodontist, start by scheduling an appointment with your family dentist. Endodontists can perform a variety of treatments and procedures including root canal therapy, endodontic retreatment, endodontic surgery, traumatic dental injuries, and dental implants.
Learning more about these treatments allows you to understand whether or not you need this type of dental professional.
