Endodontics is dental treatment involving the nerve and blood supply inside the tooth. People typically think that endodontics means having a "root canal" done. However, thanks to modern materials and techniques, we often can perform endodontic treatment that is minimumally invasive, potentially saving time and money.

A common misconception is that a root canal is an uncomfortable procedure. Actually, root canals are similar to having a cavity filled, producing minimal discomfort.

Your unique situation will be considered when determining which endodontic therapy is appropriate.

Endodontics services offered include:

• Pulpotomy/Pulpectomy - usually performed on primary ( baby teeth) to remove the infected nerve to maintain the tooth until it is ready to exfoliate(fall out on it's own) when the permanent tooth erupts.
• Indirect Pulp Cap - treatment where decayed tooth material is removed without exposing the pulp. In teeth with deep decay, a medication is applied over deep areas to try to get the tooth to "heal" by making new dentin. The tooth is still vital (alive) following this procedure.
• Direct Pulp Cap - procedure where a limited portion of the pulp is removed following pulp exposure due to deep decay  or dental trauma.
• Apexification/Apexogenisis - a procedure on immature permanent  teeth with incomplete root formation. The goal of this is to close off the tip of the root (apexification) or to allow further growth and closure of the root (apexigenisis). A root canal is indicated following apexification.
• Root Canal - this prcedure is done when the nerve "dies", making the tooth non-vial. The soft tissue inside the of the tooth and root is cleaned, shaped and a permanent filling material is put into the roots to seal them to minimize the chance of reinfection. This procedure does not remove the entire root, only the soft tissue inside the root.

Common causes for the need of endodontic treatment:

• Inflamed.unfected tooth pulp
• Severe sensitivity to hot and cold elements
• Tooth decay (deep decay near pulp)
• Chipped or broken tooth
• Blow to the tooth (dental trauma)
• Swelling or tenderness near the infected tooth
• Repeated dental procedures on a tooth
• Unprovoked pain in tooth

Please contact our office for an evaluation if you experience any of the symptoms above.