What is endodontics? Endodontics (root canal treatment) is necessary when the soft inner tissue, or 'pulp' of the tooth becomes inflamed or infected. This may happen as a result of deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or trauma to the tooth. Endodontic treatment removes the damaged pulp. Then the tooth 's canals are cleaned and filled to help preserve the tooth.
Who performs endodontic treatment? All dentists, including your general dentist, received training in endodontic treatment in dental school. General dentists can perform endodontic procedures, but often refer patients needing endodontic treatment to endodontists. An endodontist is a dentist with special training in endodontic procedures. They provide only endodontic services in their practices because they are specialists. To become specialists, they complete dental school and an additional two or more years of advanced training in endodontics. They perform routine as well as difficult and very complex endodontic procedures, including endodontic surgery. Endodontists are also experienced at finding the cause of oral facial pain that has been difficult to diagnose.
What are the signs of needing endodontic treatment? Signs of pulp damage include pain, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, discoloration of the tooth and swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums. Sometimes, however, there are no symptoms.
How does endodontic treatment save the tooth? The endodontist removes the inflamed or infected pulp, carefully cleans and shapes the inside of the tooth, then fills and seals the space. Afterwards, you will return to your dentist, who will place a crown or other restoration on the tooth to protect and restore it to full function. After the restoration, the tooth continues to function like any other tooth.
Will I feel pain during or after the procedure? Endodontic treatment is a very common procedure. With modern techniques and anesthetics most patients report that they are comfortable during the procedure.
For the first few days after treatment, your tooth may feel sensitive, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. This discomfort can usually be relieved with over-the-counter or prescription medications.
Your tooth may continue to feel slightly different from your other teeth for some time after your endodontic treatment is completed. However, if you have severe pain or pressure, or pain lasts more than a few days, call your endodontist.
The endodontist examines and x-rays the tooth, then administers local anesthetic. After the tooth is numb the endodontist places a small protective sheet called a 'dental dam' over the area to isolate the tooth and keep it clean and free of saliva during the procedure.
After the space is cleaned and shaped, the endodontist fills the root canals with a biocompatible material, usually a rubber-like material called 'gutta percha.' The gutta percha is placed with an adhesive cement to ensure complete sealing of the root canals. In most cases, a temporary filling is placed to close the opening. The temporary filling will be removed by your dentist when the tooth is restored.
If the tooth lacks sufficient structure to hold the restoration in place, your dentist or endodontist may place a post inside the tooth. Ask your dentist or endodontist for more details about the specific restoration planned for your tooth.
How much will the procedure cost? The cost varies depending on how severe the problem is and which tooth is affected. Molars are more difficult to treat and usually cost more. Most dental insurance policies provide coverage for endodontic treatment.
Generally, endodontic treatment and restoration of the natural tooth are less expensive than the alternative of having the tooth extracted. An extracted tooth must be replaced with a bridge or implant to restore chewing function and prevent adjacent teeth from shifting. These procedures tend to cost more than endodontic treatment and appropriate restoration.
Reviews
Rating 5.0 out of 5 based on 8 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestT Hef
4 years ago
If anyone needs an Endodontist Dr. Ro is amazing! I was referred to him by Dr.Lewert (our family dentist). I have an abscessed tooth and needed a root canal. (I'm not a huge fan of dental work!) His staff is great and he's awesome! I can tell you I was not in pain at all. He is very soft spoken and nice. When he was done I literally had to ask him "is that it?!?!" I highly recommend him
T Hef
4 years ago
If anyone needs an Endodontist Dr. Ro is amazing! I was referred to him by Dr.Lewert (our family dentist). I have an abscessed tooth and needed a root canal. (I'm not a huge fan of dental work!) His staff is great and he's awesome! I can tell you I was not in pain at all. He is very soft spoken and nice. When he was done I literally had to ask him "is that it?!?!" I highly recommend him
soyeong yim
4 years ago
Dr. Alvin S. Ro is a very kind and patient, the BEST endodontist in our area(Rockville, Gaithersburg), Very well run, friendly office, Pleasant, dedicated and competent staff. My first time for a root canal and the procedure went smoothly, I fell in sleep almost. anyone needs a root canal must go see Dr.Alvin S. Ro, is the absolute BEST!
soyeong yim
5 years ago
Dr. Alvin S. Ro is a very kind and patient, the BEST endodontist in our area(Rockville, Gaithersburg), Very well run, friendly office, Pleasant, dedicated and competent staff. My first time for a root canal and the procedure went smoothly, I fell in sleep almost. anyone needs a root canal must go see Dr.Alvin S. Ro, is the absolute BEST!
Pastor Krause
5 years ago
Excellent! Gentle and very skilled. I was completely relaxed throughout the procedure. I actually fell asleep during my root canal - and not due to sedation. I would definitely choose him again.
Elizabeth Amara
5 years ago
Highly skilled. Excellent!! Best endodontist. I was completely relaxed through out the procedure. Anyone with fear of Root Canal treatment, must see Dr. Ro.
Pastor Krause
6 years ago
Excellent! Gentle and very skilled. I was completely relaxed throughout the procedure. I actually fell asleep during my root canal - and not due to sedation. I would definitely choose him again.
Elizabeth Amara
6 years ago
Highly skilled. Excellent!! Best endodontist. I was completely relaxed through out the procedure. Anyone with fear of Root Canal treatment, must see Dr. Ro.
Paris Dombrowski
6 years ago
My family dentist sent me to Dr. Alvin Ro in Gaithersburg for a root canal because his equipment is state of the art. What a pleasant surprise to be greeted by his friendly staff and taken in to an examination room right away. Dr. Ro listened to my story, took a few x-rays and went straight to work. No muss no fuss; I was out of there in a pain free flash. If you or anyone you know ever needs an Endodontist this is the man to look for. My only regret is I cannot give him more than 5 stars.
Vivek Vedpathak
6 years ago
Highly skilled.
Vivek Vedpathak
7 years ago
Highly skilled.
Paris Dombrowski
7 years ago
My family dentist sent me to Dr. Alvin Ro in Gaithersburg for a root canal because his equipment is state of the art. What a pleasant surprise to be greeted by his friendly staff and taken in to an examination room right away. Dr. Ro listened to my story, took a few x-rays and went straight to work. No muss no fuss; I was out of there in a pain free flash. If you or anyone you know ever needs an Endodontist this is the man to look for. My only regret is I cannot give him more than 5 stars.
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