What Types of Procedures Do Endodontists Perform?
Endodontists are dentists who specialize in treating tooth pain and saving teeth. They complete dental school, followed by two to three years of advanced training focused on diagnosing and treating dental pain. Seeking care from an endodontist means you can expect expert, specialized care!
The following are the most common endodontic procedures.
Root Canal Therapy
A root canal treatment is an endodontic procedure that involves the removal of infected or inflamed tooth pulp to preserve a damaged tooth and restore its health and function. After a root canal, a general dentist will place a dental crown on the treated tooth to protect it and restore its appearance.
Endodontic Retreatment
In the rare event that root canal therapy is not successful, we may recommend endodontic retreatment. That involves removing the infection and cleaning and shaping the pulp chambers. We’ll use light and a microscope to search for additional canals or any unusual anatomy requiring treatment.
Root End Surgery
Also known as an apicoectomy, root end surgery helps save damaged teeth with inflammation that persists or recurs after a root canal treatment, specifically in the bony area around the end of the root. The procedure involves removing the tip of the root called the apex, along with any damaged or infected tissues to restore the tooth’s health and function.
Apexogenesis Procedure
Apexogenesis is a procedure designed to save an injured or infected immature tooth by encouraging its root to develop, an open apex to naturally close, and the root canal walls to thicken as the tooth matures. It involves placing a medication called MTA or mineral trioxide aggregate on the root’s apex to allow the root to continue development while the pulp heals. The more mature the root becomes, the better the chances the tooth has for survival.
Apexification Procedure
Apexification is an endodontic procedure designed to seal off the apex or base of an immature tooth or one with eroded roots. It involves removing the damaged pulp tissues and placing medication in the root to stimulate its development and encourage the formation of a hard tissue barrier near its tip. Closing the apex prevents further inflammation and infection and allows for successful root canal therapy if required.
Emergency Dental Care
Endodontists are highly trained and experienced in dealing with dental emergencies. These include severe pain from diseased or damaged teeth and traumatic tooth injuries, such as knocked-out (avulsed), dislodged (extruded), or fractured teeth. An endodontist will perform root canal therapy or any other needed procedure to alleviate your pain and save the affected tooth.
Quality Endodontic Services Near Me
Contact Prime Endodontics in Houston, TX, to learn more about our state-of-the-art endodontic services. Our team is committed to providing the highest level of patient care for pain-free, healthy smiles. Call us and schedule your appointment today!