Frequently Asked Questions:
Q:
Why would I need an
endodontic procedure?
A:
Endodontic
treatment is necessary when the pulp, the soft tissue inside the
root canal, becomes inflamed or infected. The inflammation or
infection can have a variety of causes: decay, old leaking
restorations, or a crack or chip in the tooth. In addition, an
injury to a tooth may cause pulp damage even if the tooth has no
visible chips or cracks. If pulp inflammation or infection is left
untreated, it can cause severe pain or lead to an abscess.
Q: How does endodontic treatment save the tooth?
A: The endodontist removes the inflamed or infected pulp, carefully cleans and shapes the inside of the canal, a channel inside the root, 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.
Q: What are the signs of
needing endodontic treatment?
The signs and symptoms can be quite varied they include: pain,
prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, tenderness to touch and
chewing, discoloration of the tooth, and swelling, drainage and
tenderness in the lymph nodes as well as nearby bone and gingival
tissues. Sometimes, however, there are no symptoms.
Q: Will the tooth need any
special care or additional treatment after endodontic treatment?
You should not chew or bite on the treated tooth until you have had
it restored by your dentist. The un-restored tooth is susceptible to
fracture, so you should see your dentist for a full restoration as
soon as possible.
Q: Will I feel pain during or
after the procedure?
Many endodontic procedures
are performed to relieve the pain of toothaches caused by pulp
inflammation or infection. Profound anesthesia can be obtained. Many
of my patients will fall asleep during the appointment.
For the first few days after treatment, your tooth will feel tender
to bite, especially if there was pain or infection before the
procedure. This discomfort can be relieved with over-the-counter or
prescription medications. Follow our post-operative instructions
carefully.
In a small minority of cases, the tooth may continue to feel
slightly different from your other teeth for some time after your
endodontic treatment is completed. However, if you have moderate or
severe pain or pain that lasts more than a few days, please call our
office.