What is Endodontics?
Endodontics is the science of treating problems with the tissue inside (endo) the tooth (odont). When this tissue or the tissue surrounding the tooth root is diseased or damaged due to decay or trauma, endodontic treatment typically can save the tooth. As such Endodontists are dentists specializing in diagnosing and treating facial and oral problems that lead to inner tooth pain.
How Important is Endodontic Treatment
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: deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, 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 pain or lead to an abscess. For more information see this link: Root Canal Treatment
How Do I Know if I Have Cracked Tooth?
Cracked teeth are best known through erratic pain when chewing, possibly with release of biting pressure, or pain when your tooth is exposed to temperature extremes. Because of this coming and going pain, it is difficult for a dentist to locate the discomforting tooth. Fortunately, endodontists specialize in saving cracked teeth and will cater treatment to the type, location, and extent of the crack. The sooner your tooth is treated, the better the outcome. For more information see this link: Cracked Teeth
Do I Need to Have a Retreatment?
As occasionally happens with any dental or medical procedure, a tooth may not heal as expected after initial treatment for a variety of reasons. Whenever possible, it is best to save your natural tooth. Retreated teeth can function well for years, even for a lifetime. If nonsurgical retreatment is not an option, then endodontic surgery should be considered. The only other alternative is extraction of the tooth. For more information see this link: Root Canal Retreatment
Root Canal Myths
Myth #1—Root canal treatment is painful.
Truth—Root canal treatment doesn't cause pain, it relieves it.
Myth #2—Root canal treatment causes illness.
Truth—Root canal treatment is a safe and effective procedure.
Myth #3—A good alternative to root canal treatment is extraction (pulling the tooth).
Truth—Saving your natural teeth, if possible, is the very best option.
Do I Need Insurance?
If you have dental insurance we will contact the carrier to verify your coverage. A dental benefit plan helps you pay for the cost of your dental care. Essentially, it helps share your dental costs by reducing the overall payment in half or more. Just be sure to pay the fee of what insurance doesn't cover.
If you do not have a dental plan to assist you in the cost of your treatment we can provide you with an estimated cost of your care. CareCredit is a good place to start with 0% financing. You can even call us directly for help in getting pre-approved with CareCredit.
Anything Else
If you should have any questions we are more than happy to assist you over the phone. 215-997-9888
