Endodontics is a dental specialty focusing on diagnosing and treating complex cases involving the dental pulp and root canals. A root canal is the most common endodontic procedure, and it is performed when the dental pulp becomes infected and must be removed.
When it comes to maintaining optimal oral health, it's essential to prioritize the health of your teeth from the inside out. That is why, at Worden Dentistry, we offer endodontic services focusing on diagnosing, treating, and preventing dental pulp and root canal-related issues. With advancements in modern dentistry, endodontic treatments, particularly root canal therapy, have become highly effective in saving natural teeth that would otherwise be lost.
Types of Endodontic Procedures
Root Canal Treatment
This is the most common type of endodontic treatment. It involves removing the infected or damaged dental pulp from the tooth and thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the root canals. The canals are then filled and sealed with a biocompatible material to prevent reinfection. Root canal treatment aims to save the natural tooth and alleviate pain or discomfort caused by infection or inflammation.
Endodontic Retreatment
Sometimes, a previously treated tooth may develop new issues or fail to heal properly. Endodontic retreatment involves reopening the tooth, removing the existing filling material, and cleaning and disinfecting the canals. The canals are then filled and sealed with new material. Endodontic retreatment aims to address persistent infection or inflammation and save the tooth.
Apicoectomy
Also known as root-end surgery, an apicoectomy is a surgical procedure performed when a root canal-treated tooth continues to have infection or inflammation at the tip of the root. The dentist accesses the root through a small incision in the gum tissue, removes the infected or inflamed tissue, and seals the root tip with a filling material. This procedure is typically performed in conjunction with root canal treatment or retreatment.
The Benefits of Endodontics
Saving Natural Teeth
Endodontic treatments focus on preserving natural teeth, preventing the need for extraction and potential replacements like dental implants or bridges. By preserving the natural teeth, oral function, aesthetics, and bite alignment are also maintained.
Pain Relief
Dental pulp inflammation or infection can cause severe toothaches. Endodontic treatments are performed to eliminate the source of pain, providing much-needed relief and improving the patient's quality of life.
Improved Oral Health
By addressing underlying dental issues, endodontic treatments promote overall oral health. Treating infections and inflammation helps prevent the spread of bacteria to other teeth and reduces the risk of gum disease or systemic health problems associated with poor oral health.
Endodontics plays a vital role in maintaining oral health by saving natural teeth and restoring smiles. If you're experiencing tooth sensitivity or severe toothache, visit Worden Dentistry at 2336 Aberdeen Dr, Tyler, TX 75703, or call (903) 581-1646 for the best dental care tailored to your unique needs.
