Endodontic treatment requires the skills and special training of an endodontist. This dental speciality focuses on the tissues found deep within the tooth, such as the pulp and nerve, using precise movements to carefully work with the tiny roots and their twisted canals. They do all of this in an effort to save a tooth that may have otherwise been extracted.
General dentists can perform a long, comprehensive list of dental services. But, when an issue concerns the inside (the meaning of the Latin prefix endo) of the tooth, endodontic treatment by a specialist is needed.
Endodontic Treatment Explained
While endodontic treatment itself can involve many different procedures, it quite often refers to root canal treatment. This is likely because it is one of the most common procedures performed by endodontists.
Usually the result of unaddressed tooth decay, the pulp inside of a tooth can become inflamed. When this happens, it is too deep for a routine filling, rather warranting a root canal treatment. This procedure involves going inside the tooth to reach the pulp and clearing out the infection so that the tooth can heal. It is then sealed up and covered with a crown, allowing it to work as a healthy tooth going forward.
Root canal treatment today has become as routine as a regular filling for a cavity.
Endodontic Procedures
As we said, endodontic treatment involves more than just root canals. There are many complex issues that can impact the inside of the teeth. Endodontists are trained to diagnose and treat these issues using special procedures. Below you will find some of the most common dental procedures that fall under endodontic treatment.
Endodontic Retreatment. We discussed a root canal treatment above. However, when this same tooth becomes compromised again, for one reason or another, it will require a second treatment, known as endodontic retreatment.
Endodontic Surgery. This microsurgery - also referred to as an apicoectomy or apical surgery - involves removing the tip of the root. By performing this procedure in addition to or in place of a root canal treatment, endodontists can get to the root of the problem and help the patient heal.
Dental Trauma. Trauma can wreak havoc on oral health. Thankfully, endodontists specialize in saving teeth – even when it doesn’t seem possible. Whether a fall, sports injury, or accident, a cracked tooth down to the pulp, exposed roots, or other complex issues are handled using endodontic treatment procedures.
Pulpectomy. Sometimes young patients with primary teeth require a root canal. The inflamed pulp is removed, but because the roots need to continue to grow, they have to be carefully cleaned and left intact. This endodontic treatment procedure is known as a pulpectomy.
Endodontic Treatment at Eagle Endodontics
At Eagle Endodontics, we use specialized procedures to treat the most complex endodontic issues. Our highly trained staff, led by Dr. Sarraf, takes every step possible to preserve your natural tooth.
To learn more about endodontic treatment or to schedule an appointment, contact us at one of our two convenient locations. Or, request an appointment online.