Common Dental Procedures Offered by Endodontists

Root canal treatment is the most frequently performed procedure in endodontics. This treatment addresses severe decay or infection within the tooth’s pulp—the soft tissue inside the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels.

Patients typically need root canal therapy when experiencing:

• Persistent tooth pain
• Sensitivity to hot or cold that doesn’t resolve quickly
• Swelling or tenderness around a tooth
• Discoloration indicating inner tooth damage or infection

During a root canal procedure, the infected or damaged pulp is carefully removed, the tooth is cleaned and disinfected, then sealed to prevent further infection. Finally, your general dentist usually places a protective crown to ensure your tooth remains healthy and functional.

Endodontic Retreatment: Resolving Persistent Issues

Sometimes, a previously treated tooth continues to cause discomfort or becomes re-infected. In these cases, an endodontist might recommend endo retreatment. This procedure involves carefully reopening the tooth, thoroughly disinfecting the canals again, and resealing to resolve persistent or recurring symptoms.

Retreatment is often necessary when:

• Hidden canals or complex anatomy weren’t fully addressed in the first treatment.
• New decay or a compromised crown allows bacteria to reinfect the tooth.

Endodontic retreatment effectively resolves ongoing pain or infection, often preventing tooth extraction and saving your natural tooth.

 Apicoectomy (Root-End Surgery): Specialized Care for Complex Cases

An apicoectomy, or root-end surgery, addresses infections or inflammation near the root tip that standard root canal treatment may not fully resolve.

An apicoectomy might be required if:

• Infection persists after standard root canal treatment or retreatment.
• Root canals are blocked or complex, making conventional treatment less effective.
• Imaging reveals persistent infections at the root tip.

During an apicoectomy, your endodontist carefully removes the affected root tip, disinfects the surrounding area, and seals the root end with a biocompatible material, eliminating infection and promoting healing.

Dental Trauma Management: Prompt Treatment of Injuries

Endodontists specialize in managing dental trauma, including teeth that are fractured, dislodged, or knocked out completely (avulsed). Immediate intervention by an endodontic doctor increases the likelihood of preserving natural teeth after injury.

Common dental trauma procedures performed by endodontists include:

• Stabilizing fractured teeth and performing root canal therapy as needed.
• Replanting and stabilizing avulsed (knocked-out) teeth to encourage healing.
• Managing dislodged or loose teeth, ensuring proper repositioning and healing.

 Understanding the Endodontic Referral Form

Your general dentist often initiates specialized endodontic care by completing an endodontic referral form. This form clearly outlines the dental issue, previous treatments, and specific recommendations, facilitating coordinated care between your dentist and endodontist.

When scheduling your appointment, our endodontic office ensures that referral information is clearly communicated, making your visit seamless and efficient.

Preparing for Your Endodontic Appointment

Clear communication and preparation help your visit run smoothly. Patients scheduling an appointment typically receive comprehensive endodontic patient info, including:

• Required paperwork (insurance, identification, and referral forms).
• Instructions on pre-treatment care.

Details on sedation options for patient comfort.

When Should You Seek Specialized Endodontic Services?

Common scenarios indicating the need for specialized endodontic care include:

• Ongoing dental pain or sensitivity.
• Dental trauma involving complex injuries.
• Persistent or recurrent infections after prior root canal treatments.
• Situations your general dentist believes require advanced tools and expertise.
  

Compassionate, Patient-Focused Endodontic Care

Endodontists use specialized tools such as digital imaging and dental microscopes, offering patients precise, comfortable, and minimally invasive treatments. Their dedicated focus ensures patients receive expert care tailored specifically to their individual needs.

If you have concerns or need specialized endodontic care, contact Northshore Endodontics today. Our experienced endodontists are here to provide clear guidance and exceptional care, protecting your dental health for years to come.