At Greene Street Dental, we understand that a healthy smile is more than just what you see on the surface. The structure of a tooth is complex and consists of both external and internal components. While the crown of the tooth is visually appealing and functional, it is the tooth’s interior that represents the life and health of the tooth. This is where endodontics comes into play.
Our team of specialists is dedicated to offering endodontic procedures in New York, NY that protect the health of your teeth and preserve the appeal of your smile. Call today to schedule your appointment!
What is Endodontics?
Endodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental issues involving the tooth pulp and the tissues surrounding the root. This field is essential to maintaining the health of the tooth’s interior, which in turn keeps the entire tooth strong and functional.
What is Tooth Pulp?
The tooth pulp is the soft tissue found at the center of a tooth, consisting of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. It plays a crucial role in providing nutrients and sensation to the tooth.
When tooth pulp becomes damaged or infected, it can lead to severe discomfort and potential tooth loss if not treated properly.
The Value of Endodontics
Endodontic treatment is crucial for preserving the health and function of your teeth. By diagnosing and treating issues related to the tooth pulp and surrounding tissues, endodontics helps to prevent tooth loss, reduce discomfort, and maintain the overall health of your mouth.
Signs of a Tooth Infection
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Endodontic Procedures
Endodontic procedures aim to treat damaged or infected tooth pulp and preserve the tooth’s structure. Some common endodontic procedures include:
- Root canal treatment: This procedure is typically recommended when the tooth’s pulp has become infected or damaged due to decay or trauma. During a root canal treatment, the dental professional will carefully remove the infected or damaged pulp, clean the root canal system to eliminate bacteria, and then shape and seal the canals to prevent future infections. The tooth is then restored with a crown to ensure proper function and appearance.
- Endodontic retreatment: In some cases, a tooth that has previously undergone a root canal treatment may not heal properly or may become reinfected. Endodontic retreatment involves the removal of the existing root canal filling, thorough cleaning and disinfection of the canals, and re-sealing the root canals with new filling material. This procedure aims to resolve any lingering issues and promote the successful healing of the tooth.
- Apicoectomy: An apicoectomy, also known as root-end surgery, may be recommended when a tooth with a previous root canal treatment continues to have persistent infection or inflammation around the root tip. During this procedure, the dentist will access the root tip through a small incision in the gum, remove the infected tissue and root tip, and then place a small filling at the end of the root canal to seal the area. The gum tissue is then sutured to allow for proper healing.
- Pulpotomy: A pulpotomy is often performed on a tooth with extensive decay or damage that has affected the pulp but has not yet reached the root canals. This procedure involves the partial removal of the tooth’s pulp to alleviate discomfort and inflammation. A medicated dressing is placed over the remaining healthy pulp to promote healing and maintain the vitality of the tooth. The tooth is then restored with a crown or filling to protect it from further damage.
At Greene Street Dental, we understand that your oral health is an integral part of your overall well-being, and we genuinely care about each and every patient that walks through our doors. Our team of endodontic specialists is not only committed to providing exceptional care but also to creating a compassionate and supportive environment for patients experiencing dental trauma or infections.
Our goal is to help you feel confident and comfortable throughout your entire treatment process, and we strive to achieve the best possible results for your oral health and overall well-being. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, contact our office today.
