Endodontics is the dental specialty that focuses on the study and treatment of the innermost layer of the tooth, known as the dental pulp. The pulp includes the tooth’s nerves, blood vessels, and living connective tissue and cells. When the pulp becomes injured, infected or diseased, it results in pain and sensitivity and can cause the tooth to die if left untreated. The goal of endodontic treatment is to restore the health of the tooth and prevent it from requiring an extraction.
There are several types of endodontic treatment available depending on your needs. The most common type of endodontic treatment is root canal therapy. A root canal involves removing the injured and infected tooth tissue before thoroughly cleaning the tooth, filling it with a medicated material to prevent reinfection, and capping it with a dental crown to protect and restore it. Other common endodontic treatments include apicoectomy, pulpal debridement, pulpotomy and root canal retreatment.
When you visit our office, our dentist will carefully examine your teeth and mouth to determine if an endodontic treatment is needed and which type of treatment is the right option for you. Give us a call today for more information about endodontics and to schedule your consultation!