Dental care is essential for your overall well-being and appearance. Dentistry has evolved tremendously over the recent decades in terms of technology for precise prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oral problems. Dental specialists are trained doctors who specialize in dealing with oral problems, and one such highly trained specialist are endodontist.
The dentist in San Diego, CA, and their team specialize in complex dental problems that involve the pulp. Know more about endodontists through this informative blog.
An introduction to endodontists
An endodontist is a dental professional who focuses on complex tooth problems, primarily involving the tooth pulp. The dental pulp is the innermost part of the tooth that consists of nerves and blood vessels. It provides nourishment to the tooth. Endodontists specialize in diagnosing and treating complex oral problems by using advanced techniques. Their main goal is to relieve painful symptoms while preserving your natural teeth and saving them from extractions.
Understanding the role of an endodontist
Endodontists play a crucial role in oral rehabilitation by treating damaged pulp or root tissues that may arise from the following conditions:
Tooth decay: Breakdown of the enamel surface of the tooth due to demineralization caused by bacteria and plaque accumulation.
Tooth injuries: Trauma affects the tooth, such as an accident or a fall.
Tooth abscess: Pus-filled pocket on your gums due to bacterial infiltration.
Cracked tooth: Damage to the tooth that facilitates an opening for bacterial infiltration due to trauma.
The common procedures performed by an endodontist
Endodontists perform multiple procedures, such as:
Root canal therapy: Removal of the damaged pulp tissues and replacing them with a biocompatible material to seal the tooth.
Endodontic retreatment: Removal of infected tissues from previously root canal-treated teeth and replacing them with a filling material.
Endodontic surgery: This involves specialized surgeries like apicoectomy (removal of the tip, end, or entire tooth root).
Emergency dental surgery: Involves repairing complex dental injuries or extensive tooth infections.
When should you consult an endodontist?
You may need to consult an endodontist if you have:
- Excruciating, lingering tooth pain
- Tooth pain that does not subside even with medications
- Unexplained tooth or jaw pain
- Teeth with extreme sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- Inflammation in the gums of the affected tooth
- Facial swelling and asymmetry
- High fever
Endodontists are highly qualified and trained dental specialists who deal with the diagnosis and treatment of complex oral problems involving the pulp or the tooth root. These specialists help pinpoint the cause of tooth pain and provide effective treatments to alleviate painful symptoms.
