FAQ
What is Endodontics?
Endodontics is a branch of dentistry recognized by the American Dental Association involving treatment of the pulp and surrounding tissues of the tooth. When you look at your tooth in your mouth, what you see is the crown. The rest of the tooth is its root foundation that is hidden beneath the gums. Though the outer portion of the root is a hard tissue called dentin, the inside is like a flower stem that contains the pulp which is a soft tissue that combines some blood vessels & nerves. Bacteria can make into that space as a result of tooth decay, periodontal disease, tooth fracture or other problems and it can severely damage the pulp. When that occurs, an endodontic specialist cleans the diseased pulp to save the tooth and prevent further infection. After successful endodontic treatment, the tooth continues to perform normally.
Will I have any discomfort after my root canal?
Following root canal therapy, you may experience some persistent inflammation around the affected tooth. This can feel like a traditional “bruise” and can be treated as such. We recommend consistent anti-inflammatory medications, such as 400-800mg of Ibuprofen(Advil) or 200-400mg of Naproxen Sodium (Aleve), to help with this discomfort. We also strongly recommend not chewing directly on the treated tooth for 2-3 days to allow proper time to heal.
What happens after treatment?
When your root canal therapy has been completed, a record of your treatment will be sent to your restorative dentist. You should contact your dentist office for a follow-up restoration within a few weeks of completion of your root canal therapy in our office. Your restorative dentist will decide what type of restoration is necessary to protect your tooth. It is rare for endodontic patients to experience complications after routine endodontic treatment. If a problem does occur, we are available at all times to respond.
What about infection?
There’s no need for concern. We adhere to the most rigorous standards of infection control advocated by OSHA, the Centers for Disease Control and the American Dental Association. We utilize autoclave sterilization and barrier techniques to eliminate any risk of infection. We also go the extra mile by adding additional measures such as an aerosol evacuator for each dental chair, a microscope protective shield and extra air filtration systems.
I’m worried about x-rays. Should I be?
There's no need to worry. While x-rays will be necessary during your endodontics treatment, we use advanced non-film computerized digital radiography systems. Our new digital systems produces radiation levels up to 90 percent lower than those of already low dose conventional dental x-ray machinery. These digital images can be optimized, archived, printed and sent to you and your referral dentist through our secure encrypted cloud based digital portal.