Endodontics deals with diagnosing, preventing, and treating diseases and injuries of the dental pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth) and the surrounding tissues of the tooth root. Common endodontic treatments include root canal therapy, retreatment of previous root canal therapy, and endodontic surgery such as apicoectomy. Endodontics Monroe can help save a damaged or infected tooth instead of extracting it.
The diagnosis of the endodontic disease usually begins with a dental examination and radiographic (x-ray) evaluation. In some cases, further diagnostic tests may be needed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the infection. These may include diagnostic pulp tests (such as thermal or electric pulp testing) or cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans.
In some cases, a dentist may refer the patient to an endodontist, a specialist in diagnosing and treating diseases and injuries of the dental pulp and surrounding tissues of the tooth root.
Reasons to opt for endodontics treatment
There are several reasons why a person may consider endodontic treatment:
Tooth pain
It is one of the main reasons why a person may consider endodontic treatment. The pain can be caused by inflammation or infection of the dental pulp, the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. This can result from tooth decay, a cracked or broken tooth, or trauma to the tooth.
Symptoms of tooth pain caused by pulp inflammation or infection may include:
- Sharp, throbbing pain when biting or chewing
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Pain that wakes you up at night
- Pain or discomfort that spreads to other parts of the face, jaw, or neck
- Tenderness or swelling in the gums near the affected tooth
Swelling or Abscess
Swelling or an abscess (a pocket of pus) on the gums near a tooth can signify an infected tooth. An abscess is caused by a bacterial infection that has spread from the tooth to the surrounding tissues. The infection can cause inflammation and swelling, which can lead to the formation of an abscess.
Symptoms of a dental abscess may include:
- Swelling in the gums near the affected tooth
- Pain or discomfort in the affected area
- Tenderness or redness in the gums
- A small bump or pimple on the gums near the affected tooth
- A bad taste or smell in the mouth
- Fever
- Difficulty opening the mouth
An abscess can cause serious damage to the tooth and surrounding tissues if left untreated. Endodontic treatment, such as root canal therapy, can help to remove the infection and save the tooth.
Trauma or injury
Trauma or injury to a tooth can cause damage to the dental pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels) and can lead to inflammation or infection. This can cause severe pain, swelling, and sensitivity to temperature changes.
Symptoms of a traumatic injury to a tooth may include:
- Pain or discomfort in the affected tooth
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Swelling or bleeding in the gums near the affected tooth
- A cracked or broken tooth
It is advisable to note that endodontic treatment can be a complex procedure, and it is best to consult your dentist or endodontist at Apple Dental to determine if it is the best option.
