What Endodontic Treatment Can a General Dentist Perform?

You might not know much about endodontic treatments, but if you ever need a procedure to save a tooth, you will be grateful for this branch of dentistry. When you have concerns with your teeth, you need to go to the right professional. In some cases, an endodontist can most effectively help you. It is helpful to understand what this person can do and when you should seek treatment. There are various procedures that the endodontist will do to relieve your pain and suffering.

Differences between an endodontist and a general dentist

People should visit the general dentist at least every six months for checkups and exams. As needed, patients may need to go to an endodontics office for care. An endodontist is a dentist that focuses on preserving a tooth that has suffered trauma, disease, or severe decay. This dentist has at least two more years of training than a general dentist. This professional has knowledge of diagnosing and treating issues that affect the roots and pulp of a tooth.

Root canal

A root canal is necessary when a patient has tooth pain due to infection or inflammation in the roots. Untreated, these conditions can lead to abscesses on the roots. This can cause widespread infection throughout the mouth and body. To do a root canal, the endodontist will first take X-rays to get close-up pictures of the interior of the tooth. Next, the endodontist will numb the patient’s mouth for comfort and to block any pain during the process.

Once the anesthetic takes effect, the endodontist drills into the tooth. After removing any decay and bacteria, the endodontist cleans out the tooth. The pulp is also removed. Finally, the endodontist seals the tooth. The general dentist may subsequently put a crown over the tooth.

Endodontic retreatment

At an endodontics office, patients can get effective care for the most severely damaged teeth. However, some root canal procedures experience problems later on. Months or years afterward, the tooth can once again become diseased or infected. If this happens, the individual should return to the endodontist for retreatment. The endodontist may do this if the tooth broke or cracked or if there was additional decay.

Endodontic surgery

In the most serious situations, a different type of surgery may be necessary. If a root canal is not going to save the tooth, the endodontist may perform surgery to repair small fractures or canals in the interior of the tooth. If the patient has an infection around the bony area of the end of the tooth, a procedure called an apicoectomy can repair the problem. The endodontist will remove the end of the root or any infected surrounding tissue.

Endodontics could be the answer to your oral health needs

At some point, you may need someone other than the general dentist to help with an oral health condition. An endodontist can do a root canal or other surgery to relieve pain and discomfort. These procedures can save your tooth so you can avoid extraction. Make an appointment with a dentist near you if you are experiencing intense tooth pain.

Request an appointment here: https://brimhalldentalgroup.com or call Brimhall Dental Group at (661) 249-1122 for an appointment in our Bakersfield office.

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