Our primary goal is to help patients save their natural teeth. Our practice specializes in Endodontics, commonly referred to as root canal therapy. The word “endo” comes from the Greek language and means “inside” or within. Endodontists work with the “inside” of a tooth. Root canal therapy is commonly performed when the dental pulp becomes inflamed or infected due to deep decay, old restoration, cracks, or trauma. During root canal therapy the pulp of the tooth is removed painlessly under profound anesthesia and then roots are filled with a suitable filling material. Teeth may have 1 to 4 main canals depending on tooth position in the mouth. Extra canals may branch out and are called “accessory canals”. We use our expertise, experience and advanced technology including operating microscopes and 3D imaging to find and successfully treat the entire root canal space. Endodontic therapy combined with an appropriate restoration by your dentist can add decades of service to the tooth that otherwise would be extracted.
Occasionally an endodontically treated tooth may not completely heal after the initial treatment or may develop new problems. Our doctors can diagnose potential causes of post-endodontic disease and save such teeth by re-treating the root canal space and finding and eliminating the problem. Technology and our clinical experience can give your tooth a “second chance” thereby avoiding extraction.
In some cases it may be necessary to surgically remove the infection around the roots or the tooth. This is known as an apical surgery or an apicoectomy. Profound anesthesia is used to prevent any discomfort during treatment. Then, after a small incision on the gum, the infected area around the roots of the tooth is cleaned and sealed.
Dental anxiety is common. We understand and respect the fears and concerns some patients have. We strive to create a relaxed environment, and we take time to consult with each patient to determine his or her level of anxiety. Most patients find the experience of having root canal treatment to be much easier than anticipated.
For our patients who have a higher level of dental anxiety, we are equipped to provide sedation in a manner that will ease their fears while keeping them safe and relaxed throughout their procedures.
Safety and comfort have always been – and always will be our top priority. If you are interested in sedation endodontics, please contact our office to discuss your options with one of our sedation coordinators.
Traumatic dental injuries can often occur as a result of an accident or sports-related trauma. These injuries can be minor, such as chipped or cracked teeth, or severe, such as dislodged or knocked out teeth. Whether the injury is minor or severe, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible for examination. Treatment of traumatic dental injuries depend on the type and severity of the injury, which will be determined during the initial or follow-up examinations.
Although all dentists are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of cracked teeth, many rely on our endodontic expertise in diagnosing and treating complicated and difficult cases, such as cracked teeth. Early diagnosis of cracked teeth is extremely important, as they often start small and progress slowly over time. The earlier it is detected and treated, the better the chance of saving your tooth.
Endodontists are specifically trained in the diagnosis of facial and dental pain. We use the latest advancements in dental technology to quickly identify the cause of the problem and recommend proper treatment. Eliminating pain while saving a patient’s natural tooth is a significant service that we are uniquely positioned to provide.