What Is Endodontic Treatment?

A regular dentist may have a lot of procedures and treatments to offer, but sometimes the concern warrants endodontic treatment from a skilled specialist known as an endodontist.

These professionals handle complex dental procedures that involve the inner tissues of the tooth, generally referred to as the pulp or nerve. Endodontists are highly trained to maneuver through the intricate areas and roots within the tooth in a giant effort to save it.

What is Endodontic Treatment? 

Endodontic treatment can include many procedures that involve the interior of the tooth. One of the most common is root canal treatment. In fact, because endodontists spend much of their time performing these procedures, the phrase endodontic treatment is often used interchangeably with root canal treatment.

When a tooth’s nerve and pulp become inflamed or infected, a root canal procedure is used to clear out that inflection and allow the tooth to heal - thus greatly reducing the need for extraction. By adding a crown to restore the tooth’s integrity, it will both look and function beautifully.

Many people get anxious when they hear that they need a root canal. Today, however, this treatment is so common that it is equivalent to most other restorative dental procedures.

Common Endodontic Procedures

Endodontic treatment involves diagnosing and treating complex issues involving the inside of the tooth, such as infection. When concerns involving the teeth reach an endodontist, it is to use special procedures that will save a tooth that would have otherwise been lost. Some of the most common endodontic procedures include:

• Root canal treatment - As discussed above, this is the removal of inflammation and infection within the pulp of the tooth.
• Endodontic retreatment - After a root canal, there are times when the tooth again becomes infected or inflamed. This treatment is a second attempt to clean out the tooth and save it.
• Endodontic surgery or apicoectomy - If a root canal treatment and retreatment do not remove all the inflammation and infection, it may be necessary to go deeper, into the underlying bone area where the very end of the root is removed. This is performed in the office under local anesthesia.
• Cracked teeth - Cracks can happen for a variety of reasons. Many times, your dentist will be able to provide the necessary treatment to restore the tooth. But, when the crack reaches the pulp, a root canal will be necessary.
• Dental trauma - Various trauma and injuries can leave you with complex dental needs. Because endodontists are so familiar with the inner workings of the tooth, as well as strive to do everything possible to save a tooth, they are a great asset for handling these situations.

Endodontic Treatment at Elite Endodontics of NH

At Elite Endodontics of NH, we have been saving teeth for over two decades. Using the most advanced treatments available, our team can provide relief from pain while doing everything necessary to avoid extraction.

If you would like to learn more about the endodontic treatment we provide or would like to schedule an appointment, contact us today at 603-882-5455. Or, request an appointment online.