What is an endodontist? A deep dive into the root canal specialist profession
If you've been referred by your dentist to see an endodontist, you're probably wondering what an endodontist is and what they actually do. In short, endodontists are dentists who have specialized in diagnosing tooth pain, which involves the root of the tooth. In this blog post, we'll go over what role an endodontist plays in dental health and how Dr. Nieves and Dr. Fitzhugh use their specialist roles to help their patients at West Fort Worth Endodontics.
Introduction to endodontics and the role of an endodontist
Endodontics is a branch of dentistry focusing on the study and treatment of the dental pulp and the tissues surrounding the roots of a tooth. An endodontist is a dentist who has undergone additional years of specialized training beyond dental school to become experts in saving teeth. They are proficient in diagnosing tooth pain and performing root canal treatment and other procedures relating to the interior of the tooth. While all endodontists are dentists, only 3% of dentists are endodontists, and even less are board-certified endodontists like Dr. Nieves and Dr. Fitzhugh.
Understanding the anatomy of a tooth and the need for Root Canal Therapy
To appreciate the role of an endodontist, it's essential to understand a tooth's anatomy. Inside each tooth, beneath the enamel (the outer layer) and the dentin (a hard layer) is the pulp, a soft tissue that contains blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue. The pulp extends from the crown of the tooth to the tip of the roots where it connects to the tissues surrounding the root.
When the pulp is infected or inflamed due to deep decay, cracks, chips or repeated dental procedures, root canal therapy is often the recommended course of action to save the tooth and alleviate pain.
The process of a root canal: step by step
The mention of a root canal may conjure images of pain and discomfort; however, with today’s advances in dental technology and anesthesia, the procedure is as straightforward as getting a filling and can often be completed in one or two appointments. Here’s what you can expect during a root canal procedure:
Preparation: Your endodontist will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area and ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
Cleaning: A small opening is made in the crown of the tooth to clean out the infected or inflamed pulp from within the pulp chamber and root canals.
Filling: After cleaning and disinfecting, the root canals are filled with a biocompatible material, usually a rubber-like material called gutta-percha, to prevent reinfection.
Sealing: The opening in the tooth is sealed with a temporary or, at times, a permanent filling to prevent contamination.
At West Fort Worth Endodontics, we use the GentleWave® machine for many of our patients, which provides an even more thorough clean than traditional root canal therapy.
Common myths and misconceptions about root canals
Myth#1: Root canal therapy is painful.
Reality: With modern techniques and anesthesia, most patients report that the procedure is no more uncomfortable than having a filling placed.
Myth #2: It’s better to pull a tooth than to have a root canal.
Reality: Endodontic treatment helps save your natural teeth, which is always preferable to extraction. Saving your natural tooth can prevent other teeth from drifting out of line and causing jaw problems.
The importance of seeking professional endodontic care
An endodontist’s specialized training and proficiency in managing complex root canal treatments and diagnosing tooth pain make them the ideal professionals to perform your root canal therapy. By choosing an endodontist for your procedure, you're opting for an expert who will ensure the best outcome for your dental health.
Tips for maintaining good oral health post-Root Canal Therapy
Following your root canal therapy, it’s crucial to maintain good oral hygiene practices to ensure the longevity of the treated tooth and your overall dental health. Here are some tips:
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss once a day.
Avoid chewing on hard foods immediately after your procedure to prevent damage to the temporary filling or newly restored tooth.
Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings.
What other procedures to endodontists perform?
While root canal therapy is what endodontists are best known for, our expertise extends beyond this procedure to handle various complex dental issues. Apart from saving a tooth through root canal treatment, endodontists are also skilled in performing apicoectomies or root-end resections, where the tip of the root of a tooth and the surrounding infected tissue are removed to treat a persistent infection. Furthermore, endodontists are proficient in treating cracked teeth to prevent a potential root canal infection.
We also specialize in endodontic retreatments, which address the issues of a previous root canal that has either failed to heal or has developed new problems over time. These additional services underscore the crucial role endodontists play in dental health, emphasizing their comprehensive understanding and treatment capabilities for a wide range of endodontic issues.
Technology and expertise are at the heart of our practice at West Fort Worth Endodontics
Endodontics is continually evolving, with technological advancements improving the efficiency and effectiveness of treatments. From digital radiographs offering detailed images of the tooth’s anatomy to ultrasonic instruments aiding in the removal of pulp debris, technology is enhancing the capabilities of endodontists and the comfort of patients.
In summary, an endodontist specialist plays a crucial role in preserving oral health through root canal therapy, enabled by their extensive training and the latest in dental technology. By debunking common myths and offering expert care, they ensure that patients can continue to smile confidently for years to come.
If you're experiencing dental pain or have been advised to undergo a root canal, contact us today to see one of our board-certified endodontists. We're passionate about helping our patients with tooth pain and would love to see you in our office!