What is Endodontics
What is Endodontics?
Endodontics is a branch of dentistry recognized by the American Dental Association involving the treatment of the pulp (root canal) and surrounding tissues of the tooth. You see the crown when you look at your tooth in the mirror. The rest of the tooth, the portion hidden beneath the gum line, is called the root. The outer part of the root is a hard tissue called dentin, and the inside channel or “root canal” contains a pulp of soft tissue, blood vessels, and nerves. It can severely damage the pulp when bacteria get introduced into the pulp due to tooth decay, periodontal disease, tooth fracture, or other problems. When that happens, an endodontic specialist removes the diseased pulp to save the tooth and prevent further infection and inflammation. After successful endodontic treatment, the tooth and its surrounding structures return to normal health.
I’m Worried about X-rays. Should I be?
No. While X-rays will be necessary during your endodontics treatment, we use an advanced non-film computerized digital radiography that produces radiation levels up to 90 percent lower than those of already low dose conventional dental X-ray machinery. These digital images can be optimized, archived, printed, and sent to co-therapists via e-mail or CD-ROM.
What happens after treatment?
Upon completing your root canal therapy, we will send a record of your treatment to your restorative dentist. You should contact their office for a follow-up restoration within a few weeks of completion at our office (unless otherwise instructed). Your restorative dentist will decide what restoration is necessary to protect your tooth. It is rare for endodontic patients to experience complications after routine endodontic treatment or microsurgery. If a problem occurs, however, we are always available to respond.
What about infection?
There’s no need for concern; we adhere to the most rigorous infection control standards advocated by OSHA, the Centers for Disease Control, and the American Dental Association. We utilize autoclave sterilization and barrier techniques to eliminate any risk of infection.
What new technologies are being used?
Please see our section on technology. It will describe the use of the surgical operating microscope, digital radiography, and Cone Beam CT scan imaging.