Endodontist
Endodontists are dental specialists that focus on the pulp (nerve) and root of teeth. Typically you will be referred to one if you are a candidate for a root canal. Their main job is to preserve your natural teeth and lessen dental pain.
Should I See an Endodontist?
Prolonged tooth pain, particularly while eating and using pressure on the area, is a common sign it’s time to make an endodontic appointment. Some other things to look out for include:
- Teeth sensitivity to hot and cold
- Darkening of the tooth
- Tenderness or swelling in the gums near a bothersome tooth
Getting a Root Canal
While the thought of a root canal may be frightening, it is a very common procedure. Endodontists go through extra schooling and certification to ensure they are able to handle root canals and other endodontic procedures.
The process of getting a root canal generally follows these steps and can be completed by either a dentist or endodontist based on the severity of the case:
- The dentist will take x-rays to assess the damage to the tooth.
- The dentist will administer local anesthetic to numb the area and prevent any discomfort.
- The dentist then makes an opening in the crown of the tooth and uses tools to clean out decayed pulp.
- Depending on the particular patient, the dentist may leave the tooth open to drain before it is filled or sealed, or they may put a temporary filling in the tooth.
Other Endodontic Treatments
- Endodontic Retreatment: If your root canal therapy fails the first time, your dentist may need to reopen the filling and inspect what went wrong. This is very rare (root canal therapy has a 90% success rate), however it may be necessary if your treatment doesn’t heal or pain persists.
- Pulp Vitality Testing: This technique diagnoses the overall health of your teeth’s pulp, and shows your endodontist which teeth may need a root canal or other procedure.
- Apicoectomy: Used as a last resort for teeth that are too decayed to be treated with a root canal, this procedure removes the damaged pulp and the tip of the root. It is also referred to as a root end resection.
Schedule Your Aurora, Colorado Endodontist Appointment Today
Panorama Dental works closely with Colorado Endodontic Group to provide a range of endodontic services in-house to our patients. Our specialists and dentists work hand-in-hand to ensure you are receiving the treatment that’s best for you. We also provide sedation options if you need them.
Call us at 303-755-8388 or fill out our appointment request form to make your appointment today! Emergency dental services are available if your pain is extreme and your appointment can’t wait.