Endodontics
Endodontics is a specialized form of dentistry focused on dental pulp, the roots of the tooth, and the tissue surrounding the roots. Endodontists perform skilled root canal procedures. Root canals remove bacteria and dead tissue from deep within a decaying tooth.
How do you Know if Your Child Needs a Root Canal?
- He has a tooth that has been injured or damaged in an accident
- The loss of an injured tooth would cause developmental issues
- Her tooth has an infection that needs to be treated
- His infected tooth has become abscessed or has a “pocket of pus”
- Loss of the injured tooth would cause problems with the use of the tongue or jaws
How will you know if your child has a damaged tooth? If your child is complaining of unexplained pain constantly, has swelling or redness around an injured tooth, has an unexpectedly loose tooth, or is suddenly sensitive to hot or cold foods…. It might be time to talk with your dentist about the possibility of a root canal.
Root canals are usually only needed when damage to the tooth is substantial. If you think your child may need a root canal, you should make an appointment to discuss your concerns with a pediatric dentist.
If your child does need a root canal, you’ll be glad to know it isn’t a long, painful procedure. On the contrary, modern advances in dentistry have made root canals quick and relatively comfortable.
Endodontics FAQ
A root canal can help save an injured tooth, giving it time to fall out on it’s own.
It is necessary when the decay in a primary tooth is so deep that it has affected the nerve.
During the procedure, the tooth is numbed using anesthesia. Afterwards, the nerves have been removed so there is little to no pain.
A root canal is what many people choose because it saves the natural tooth.
A few stitches may be placed after the root canal in order for the tissue to heal.
Most root canals are not considered surgery. However, if the fracture is small or hidden, the endodontist may recommend a surgical root canal to properly locate and treat the tooth.
It is not always necessary to add a crown after a root canal procedure.
Dental crowns last 15 years if taken care of properly.
The bacteria found in the decaying tooth can cause an infection or abscess.
It is possible that a second root canal will need to be done on the same tooth. This is because some teeth have more than one nerve.