WHY WOULD YOU NEED ENDODONTIC TREATMENT?
Endodontic treatment is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected. The most common reasons for inflammation or infection are deep cavities (caries), repeated dental procedures, cracks or chips. Trauma can also cause inflamation and often show up as discoloration of the tooth. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it could possibly lead to an abscess which may or may not be accompanied by pain.
WHAT IS DONE DURING ENDODONTIC TREATMENT?
Endodontic treatment can often be performed in one or two visits and involves the following steps:
1. A local anesthetic will be administered to "numb" the tooth. After the tooth is numb, the endodontist places a small protective sheet called a “dental dam” over the area to isolate the tooth and keep it clean and free of saliva during the procedure.
2. The endodontist makes an opening in the crown of the tooth. Very small instruments/files are used to clean the pulp from the pulp chamber and to shape the canal spaces for filling.
3. After the space is cleaned and shaped, the endodontist fills the root canals with a biocompatible material, usually a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. The gutta-percha is placed with an adhesive cement to ensure complete sealing of the root canals. In most cases, a TEMPORARY FILLING is placed to close the opening. The TEMPORARY FILLING will be removed by your dentist before the tooth is permanently restored.
4. After the final visit with your endodontist, you must return to your dentist to have a crown or other restoration placed on the tooth to protect and restore it to full function.
WILL I FEEL PAIN DURING OR AFTER THE PROCEDURE?
Modern anesthetics can make the procedure pain free in most cases. We also have nitrous oxide available upon request for those who need additional help in dealing with dental anxiety and phobia. Seeking treatment early makes the procedure more comfortable, so don't wait. When caught early, treatment should feel no different than having a regular filling. For the first few days after treatment, there may be some sensitivity to biting pressure, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. Sometimes over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications are recommended for a day or two. We will prescribe you any other medications you may need following treatment.