Endodontic treatments and procedures are specialized dental treatments that involve the inner parts of the tooth, such as the root canals, dental pulp, and dental pain. An endodontist is a highly trained dental professional who has received a minimum of two years of advanced graduate training beyond dental school. They are experts in diagnosing and treating problems within the tooth, such as root canal treatment, endodontic retreatment, endodontic surgery, traumatic dental injuries, and dental implants. Root canal treatment is the most common procedure associated with endodontics.
During this procedure, the endodontist numbs the tooth and places a small protective sheet called a dental dam over the area to isolate it and keep it clean and free of saliva. The endodontist then removes the inflamed or infected pulp, carefully cleans and shapes the inside of the tooth, then fills and seals the space. Afterwards, you will return to your dentist, who will place a crown or other restoration on the tooth to protect it and return it to full function. Endodontic retreatment is used when a tooth has not responded to root canal treatment or when additional treatment is needed.
During this procedure, the endodontist removes any existing filling material from the root canals and cleans them out. They then refill and seal the space with a biocompatible material such as gutta-percha. If the tooth lacks sufficient structure to keep the restoration in place, the dentist or endodontist can place a post inside the tooth. Endodontic surgery (also known as apical surgery or apicectomy) is another procedure that endodontists perform.
During this surgery, the infected root tip (apex) is removed, along with the surrounding tissue. Endodontic surgery is used when a tooth has not responded to root canal treatment or retreatment or when a patient is not a candidate for a root canal procedure. Endodontists also have experience in finding the cause of oral and facial pain that has been difficult to diagnose. If you think you might have a dental abscess or are experiencing severe pain or pressure that lasts longer than a few days, call your endodontist for an evaluation.
After your last visit with your endodontist, you should return to your dentist to have a crown or other restoration placed on your tooth to protect it and return it to full working order. After cleaning and shaping the space, the endodontist fills the root canals with a biocompatible material, usually a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. With proper care, your restored tooth can last you a lifetime.
