Welcome to a New Age of Endodontics 

Within the field of dentistry is the specialized field of endodontics, which address the inner tooth structures and aims to correct any infections or deterioration of these structures. A root canal treatment is a routine procedure that addresses these occurrences, and helps to save teeth from extraction and future infection in the “pulp,” or the soft inner material within the tooth. Endodontic specialists also offer treatments other than root canals – there are other endodontic treatment that address damage such as cracks and breaks in teeth, and also operations that address sensitivity and discomfort more directly by addressing the tips of the tooth roots.

When it comes to addressing tooth pain and sensitivity, the expert endodontics specialists at Westchase Premier Dental are here to help!

The Inner Tooth Structures

The top layer of the tooth is made up of tooth enamel – this is the hard substance that covers and protects the teeth. Underneath these layers of enamel is material called “dentin,” which is what actually makes up the majority of tooth structure. Dentin is also what communicates nerve sensations. Beneath this layer are the root canals that contain the pulp of the tooth, a soft material that makes up the core of the tooth. If and when infection and deterioration find their way into tooth pulp, this is when pain and sensitivity begin to set in. Overtime, the nerve cells within the pulp will die, ending this pain. However, the oral health concerns accosted with this infection do not, and can quickly worsen when left untreated.

What Issues Does A Root Canal Treatment Correct?

Routine root canal procedures aim to remove any infected pulp material and replace it with a synthetic material that protects your teeth from future infection while helping you keep and tooth and avoid having it extracted. If and when cracks and breaks in the tooth surface occur, infection in the form of bacteria can find their way into the inner layers of the tooth.

Can Damage to Teeth Lead To Infection? — dental trauma, whether caused by a sports injury, a slip and fall, or other kind of accident, can leave the tooth pulp and other inner tooth materials at risk of infection. There can also be instances where routine dental and orthodontic procedures, when not done under the best circumstances and by the best teams, can lead to these types of infections as well.

Root Canals and Other Endodontic Procedures 

Root canals remain one of the most dreaded and feared dental procedures by some dental patients. However, thanks to today’s advancements in dental technology as well as advancements in sedation, painful and discomforting root canal procedure are a think of the past at Westchase Premier Dental! It’s important to keep in mind that the goal of a root canal procedure is to relieve pain, not cause it. For most root canal patients at Westchase Dental, the most uncomfortable part of their treatment is the injection of local anesthetic they receive. Once this injection is given, a small opening is made in the tooth that allows your dentist to access the inner layers of the tooth. They then leverage small tools that help them remove any dead or decayed tissue from within the tooth, then replacing the old root material with a safe, synthetic material that helps prevent further decay from taking place, while also saving the tooth from extraction. The small opening made by your dentist is then closed. To best complete your treatment, your dentist may also recommend restorative procedures such as a crown to completely seal the top of the tooth and leave your teeth with full aesthetic appearance and function!

Are you experiencing tooth sensitivity and think a root canal may be necessary? Contact our team today, and our team will assess your tooth sensitivity and see if a root canal is necessary!