Endodontics
Specialized Care for the Inner Structure of Your Teeth
Endodontics focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of issues affecting the inner structures of your teeth, such as the dental pulp and root canals. Root canal therapy is a common endodontic procedure that saves teeth damaged by infection or decay, preserving your natural teeth and relieving pain without the need for extraction.
By addressing issues inside the tooth, endodontics restores functionality and protects your overall oral health, allowing you to continue eating, speaking, and smiling with ease.
The Role of a Dental Operating Microscope in Endodontics
Modern advances, like the dental operating microscope, have transformed endodontic care. This technology enhances precision by providing magnification and illumination, allowing endodontists to see intricate details within the root canal system. The microscope is vital for treating complex cases, identifying cracks, navigating narrow canals, and ensuring thorough cleaning and sealing of the root canal. This results in more accurate, successful, and comfortable endodontic procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is endodontics?
Endodontics is a specialized field of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases or injuries affecting the inner structures of the teeth, such as the dental pulp and root canals.
What are the signs that I might need endodontic treatment?
Common signs include persistent tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling around the gums, discoloration of a tooth, or a pimple-like bump on the gums. If you experience any of these symptoms, you may need to consult an endodontist.
How long does a root canal procedure take?
Most root canal treatments can be completed in one to two visits, depending on the complexity of the case and the status of the tooth.
Is a root canal painful?
Thanks to modern techniques and anesthesia, root canal procedures are generally comfortable and no more painful than receiving a filling.
How can I care for my tooth after a root canal?
It’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions, avoid chewing hard foods on the treated tooth, and maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine with regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups.