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.sandstondds.com or call Sandston Comprehensive Dentistry at (804) 412-0878 for an appointment in our Sandston office.
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