Endodontic Dentistry

Endodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on soft tissue injuries, infections and diseases. Endodontists are dentists that have additional training in endodontics. Simply put, endodontists focus on the inside of the tooth, diagnosing and treating tooth pain and performing root canals as needed. Endodontists can save your tooth!

Endodontists not only earn their dental degree, but must complete at least two additional years of advanced training in endodontics and the study of the interior of the tooth. They must be able to perform very complex dental procedures, including root canals and additional endodontic surgeries and procedures.

Before one can fully understand endodontics, you must understand the biology of the tooth. There are two main parts of the tooth; the crown and the root. The crown is the part that you can see. Inside of the tooth and below the gumline is the root. The root consists of tissue, referred to as dental pulp. This is also called the “nerve”. The pulp is made up of blood vessels, nerves and tissue. This pulp aids in the development of the crown in your tooth.

There are many causes for tooth pain, but many times tooth pain is caused by an infection or injury to the root. A dentist will always do their best to save a tooth when it is decayed or injured to the point of infection and pain. Extraction is a last resort. If the tooth can be saved, an endodontist will be called in to help with a treatment plan. It is totally fine to remove pulp if it is damaged and restore your tooth to a healthy condition.

One of the most common ways that an endodontist treats damaged roots and/or dental pulp is through a root canal.

A root canal is a relatively easy procedure when performed by a skilled endodontist. During root canal therapy, the endodontist will create a small hole in the crown of your tooth. Then, the pulp is removed and a filling is placed. After a root canal, permanent restorative dentistry is usually required in the form of a filling, dental crown or bridge. Once your procedure has been completed, your tooth will function just as a natural tooth and once it has healed, you will be back to chewing and talking normally. And remember, the health and success of your root canal and restoration will require great dental hygiene at home and biannual dental visits.

Untreated root problems and tooth pain can result in a myriad of adverse situations, including problems with your overall health. Any tooth infections or pain should be treated as emergencies and handled in a timely manner.

Endodontic treatment is superior to extraction not only because it saves your natural tooth, but it also saves money in the long run. Once a tooth has been extracted, additional appliances will be needed to help save the integrity of your jaw, bite and overall dental health. And although extraction may seem like a more affordable option, artificial teeth are pricier than root canals in the long run.

Here at Bellflower Dental Group, we will always do our best to save your tooth. Our expert endodontic team will provide the most advanced endodontic treatments that are as painless, efficient and affordable as possible. If you think you may be in need of endodontic therapy, please give us a call today. Our goal is to provide you the highest level of dental care in a calming, safe and professional environment.