Endodontic Therapy
Teeth have several layers and defenses to tooth decay, and it is always best to remove infection when it is first detectable and very small. Untreated cavities can progress through the first and second layers of your tooth into the third layer, called the pulp or nerve. In this central portion of the tooth, there is blood supply, nerve endings, and lots of loose space for bacteria to multiply in. Eventually, the bacteria can overwhelm the space they've invaded, and result in an abscess.
An abscess can be very painful or the patient can be totally unaware it is occurring. Sometimes the infection can work its way through the bone and gum tissue, creating a draining fistula out into the oral cavity. Because an abscess can be painful, endodontic therapy has a reputation for being painful as well. We strive to achieve excellent anesthesia and minimize discomfort while patients go through this uncomfortable time.
Endodontic Therapy, or root canals, are designed to remove the nerve of the tooth, cleaning out the infection, and placing a filling material in the canal spaces. The number of canals can vary from one single canal to up to four, sometimes even five canals. Each tooth is formed differently, so each procedure varies by tooth. Some teeth present us with a high level of difficulty with twisting, curving spaces. We strive to recommend the best treatment for each tooth, so some teeth we may refer to a specialist in Endodontic Therapy, an Endodontist.
Check out the video below for a simplified explanation of endodontic therapy.
An abscess can be very painful or the patient can be totally unaware it is occurring. Sometimes the infection can work its way through the bone and gum tissue, creating a draining fistula out into the oral cavity. Because an abscess can be painful, endodontic therapy has a reputation for being painful as well. We strive to achieve excellent anesthesia and minimize discomfort while patients go through this uncomfortable time.
Endodontic Therapy, or root canals, are designed to remove the nerve of the tooth, cleaning out the infection, and placing a filling material in the canal spaces. The number of canals can vary from one single canal to up to four, sometimes even five canals. Each tooth is formed differently, so each procedure varies by tooth. Some teeth present us with a high level of difficulty with twisting, curving spaces. We strive to recommend the best treatment for each tooth, so some teeth we may refer to a specialist in Endodontic Therapy, an Endodontist.
Check out the video below for a simplified explanation of endodontic therapy.