Infection of a tooth’s interior can be devastating to the tooth. If left untreated, it can spread to other teeth and cause serious side effects. However, treatment by an endodontist can save your tooth and help you preserve your health and your smile.
Reasons for Endodontic Treatment
An endodontist is a dentist whose specialty is treating issues with the tooth pulp, or the soft interior of the tooth. Made of cardiovascular, neural, and connective tissues, this portion of the tooth keeps it alive. When infection reaches the inside of the tooth, though, the result can be extreme discomfort and serious side effects. This type of infection becomes especially serious if it spreads into the facial bones or sinuses. From the sinuses, infection can even spread into the brain, becoming life-threatening.
If the hard layers of dentin and enamel become compromised, infection can set in. This most often occurs due to severe infection or damage to the tooth, such as cracking or breakage. Endodontic treatment then becomes necessary to remove the infection and restore the integrity of the tooth.
Types of Endodontic Treatment
The most common type of endodontic treatment is a root canal procedure. This involves the complete removal of the tooth pulp, including the nerve tissue that serves the tooth. Once the pulp is removed, the tooth interior is disinfected, filled, and sealed, then fitted with a dental crown. The crown helps maintain the integrity of the tooth so it can stand up to normal chewing and biting pressures.
Other types of endodontic treatment include:
- Root-end resection—when the root tip of an abscessed tooth is removed, as well as surrounding infection
- Root-end filling—placing a filling in the root tip
- Endodontic implants
If you are experiencing persistent discomfort, extreme sensitivity, or signs of infection in a tooth, see your dentist or endodontist for proper diagnosis. With a root canal treatment, you can eliminate the infection and keep your tooth.
Contact us at the office of Dr. Lee today!
