What Is Endodontics?

If you have an infected tooth, there are a few options for you to salvage it. Your general dental provider may refer you to an endodontist like us at Omni Endodontics in El Paso, TX, to perform a root canal, extraction, or apicoectomy depending on your needs. In today’s blog, we are here to explain what an endodontist is and the procedures available so that you can be well-informed.

More Than A Root Canal

Endodontics is a specialized field of dentistry that treats patients facing disease and injury inside of their teeth – known as the pulp. One of the most common procedures that is performed by an endodontist is a root canal. This procedure is recommended for patients who have decay that has spread to the pulp of the tooth. This can be a painful sensation that can cause sensitivity when eating and drinking. This surgery involves removing the decayed pulp and then filling and sealing the area.

There are also options from retreatment, apicoectomy, and post and core buildup. Retreatment is the process of opening the area again to determine why it has not healed. If you are experiencing inflammation or discomfort after a root canal procedure, you may need a retreatment to solve the issue.

An apicoectomy, also known as a root-end resection, allows for the gingival tissue near your tooth to be opened. This allows us to look at infections or swelling. This is a crucial step of the treatment plan because we can learn where the source is and how to best treat the area.

A core buildup treatment is a method that can restrengthen the area around your tooth after a root canal. Having a stable base for the tooth and crown allows you to have a stronger bite so that you can eat and drink properly.

Avoiding The Endodontist

We know that invasive dental procedures are not something that patients look forward to. However, these treatments can save the tooth and recover your smile. Putting off a root canal can lead to more severe discomfort and even tooth loss.

Tooth extraction may be the only alternative to a root canal and other related surgeries. Leaving the decay will only allow it to form deeper within the pulp and damage the area entirely. If you have had fillings before that have not stayed in place, a dislodged dental crown, a fractured tooth, or a severe cavity, it is best to treat the problem before needing removal. Our team is here to help you feel comfortable during the procedure so that you can enjoy your smile again.

Schedule An Appointment Today!

Sometimes, issues arise that are not noticed during a nonsurgical root canal treatment and an apicoectomy procedure is needed. To learn more, schedule an appointment with us by calling or texting Omni Endodontics in El Paso, TX, today at 915-990-3636.