Endodontics

Painful, injured and abscessed teeth are routinely managed by our dentists, but sometimes the problem is more complicated and requires a specialist in endodontics. Endodontics is a branch of dentistry concerned with the internal nerve and vascular structures of the tooth (the pulp). Endodontists diagnose and manage disease and injury of the pulp and tooth roots with the goal of saving teeth and/or eliminating pain. Treatments usually involve root canal therapy or some type of root surgery.

Many patients discover they need a root canal due to severe pain caused by infected nerves, or when the infection spreads into the gums and forms an abscess. Other signs that you may need a root canal include sensitivity to hot or cold substances, tooth discoloration, tender gums, pimple or bump on the gum, swollen gums and constant toothache.
The purpose of a root canal treatment is to remove all of the pulp and infection from inside the tooth and make sure that the canal is completely clean and free of bacteria. We use state of the art technology; a high magnification microscope and specially designed dental tools that go through the enamel to the pulp and remove the infected soft tissue. After cleaning the canal, it’s filled with a rubbery material that supports the tooth’s structure. If the tooth is in good shape, a natural-looking filling to cover the small opening may be all you need. However, if the infection developed due to a broken or decayed tooth, a dental crown may be used to restore its strength and appearance.