FAQ

Patient Information

What is endodontics?

Endodontics is a branch of dentistry involving treatment of the pulp (root canal) and surrounding tissues of the tooth. When you look at your tooth in the mirror, what you see is the crown. The rest of the tooth, the portion hidden beneath the gum line, is called the root. Though the outer portion of the root is a hard tissue called dentin, the inside channel or "root canal" contains a pulp of soft tissue, blood vessels and nerves. Bacteria that are introduced into the pulp as a result of tooth decay, periodontal disease, tooth fracture or other problems, can severely damage the pulp. When that happens, an endodontic specialist removes the diseased pulp to save the tooth and prevent further infection and inflammation. After successful endodontic treatment, the tooth continues to perform normally.

Who performs endodontic treatment?

All dentists receive training in endodontic treatment in dental school; however endodontists are dental specialists who received special, advanced training in endodontic procedures. To become an endodontist, an individual completes dental school and then spends an additional two or three more years of advanced training specifically in endodontics. Endodontists perform routine, as well as difficult and very complex endodontic procedures, including endodontic surgery. Endodontists are also very experienced at diagnosing the cause of oral and facial pain.

Why would I need an endodontic procedure?

Endodontic treatment is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected. The inflammation or infection can have a variety of causes: deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or a crack or chip in the tooth. In addition, a blow to a tooth may cause pulp damage even if the tooth has no visible chips or cracks. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess.

Signs of pulp damage include pain, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, discoloration of the tooth, swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums. Sometimes, there are no symptoms.

The endodontist removes the inflamed or infected pulp, carefully cleans and shapes the inside of the tooth, then fills and seals the space. Afterwards, you will return to your dentist, who will place a crown or another restoration on the tooth to protect and restore it to full function. After the restoration, the tooth continues to function like any other tooth in the oral cavity.

Will I feel pain during or after the procedure?

Many endodontic procedures are performed to relieve the pain of toothaches caused by pulp inflammation or infection. With modern techniques and anesthetics, most patients report feeling totally comfortable during the procedure.

For the first few days after treatment, your tooth may feel sensitive, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. This discomfort can be relieved with over-the-counter or prescription medications. Follow your endodontist’s instructions carefully. Your tooth may continue to feel slightly different from your other teeth for some time after your endodontic treatment is completed. However, if you have severe pain or pressure, or pain that lasts more than a few days, please call your endodontist.

How much will the procedure cost?

The cost varies depending on how severe the problem is and which tooth is affected. Most dental insurance policies provide some coverage for endodontic treatment. Generally, endodontic treatment and restoration of the natural tooth are less expensive than the alternative of having the tooth extracted. An extracted tooth must be replaced with a bridge or implant in order to restore chewing function and prevent adjacent teeth from shifting. These prosthetic procedures tend to cost more than endodontic treatment and appropriate restoration.

I'm worried about x-rays. Should I be?

No. While x-rays will be necessary during your endodontic treatment, we use x-ray machines that are tested regularly to make sure that they conform to current safety guidelines.

What about infection?

Again, there's no need for concern. We adhere to the most rigorous standards of infection control . We utilize autoclave sterilization and barrier techniques to eliminate any risk of infection.

What happens after treatment?

When your endodontic therapy has been completed, a record of your treatment will be sent to your restorative dentist. If non-surgical endodontics had been performed, you should contact their office for a follow-up restoration within a few weeks of completion at our office. Your referring dentist will decide on what type of restoration is necessary to protect your tooth. It is rare for endodontic patients to experience complications after routine endodontic treatment or microsurgery. If a problem does occur, however, we are available at all times to respond.

What if I am really nervous about the procedure?

Please let us know if you are particularly anxious about your visit to our office. In general, you should view root canal therapy as you would a filling at your dentist's office. Since we are all root canal specialists, we can assure you that this procedure is predictable and painless. We do know that some individuals are anxious even for routine dental care. If you are feeling anxious about your appointment, let us know. We have various methods available to help you.

I feel as though I'm having a toothache, but is it possible that the pain I'm having is not tooth related?

Most people that feel that they have a toothache are experiencing pain that is originating from the pulp(nerve) of the tooth. However, there are other conditions that mimic tooth pain, but are not tooth related at all. Some of the more common conditions that we see are Temperomandibular Joint(TMJ) disorders, Muscular tension, Sinus problems, Atypical Facial Pain, and Trigeminal Neuralgia. More information on these disorders can be found in our Links section.

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