Endodontics

Chicago Endodontic Dentists

Endodontics involves the treating of the inside of the tooth. Inside your tooth’s white enamel and under a hard protective layer called the dentin, is the soft tissue referred to as the pulp. When the soft tissue inside the root canal becomes inflamed or infected it can lead to sharp pain or potentially an abscess. An endodontic procedure is undergone to remove the inflamed or infected pulp followed by a sealing of the space so that your tooth can continue to function normally without discomfort.

Inflammation or infection of the pulp can be caused by a variety of different factors including deep decay, repeated dental procedures, large fillings, a crack or chip in the tooth, or facial trauma. Sometimes there are no symptoms of infection, however this is not often the case. If you are debating whether you need endodontic treatment, some signs to look for include:

• Prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold
• Severe toothache pain due to chewing or applied pressure
• Discoloration of the tooth
• Swelling and tenderness of the gums and/or lymph nodes

If you are subject to any of these symptoms, you may need to undergo an endodontic procedure.

The Procedure

Endodontic procedures are common practice and with current state of the art dental technology most patients report that they are comfortable during the procedure. However, the treatment area involves inflamed pulp filled with nerves, arterioles, and soft tissue so extreme care and professionalism is required.

Treatment can often be performed in one or two visits and involves:

• Clearing the pulp from the pulp chamber
• Shaping the canal for filing
• Sealing the root canal with biocompatible material
• Applying a crown or other restoration in order to protect and restore the tooth to full healthy function

Endodontically treated teeth last as long or longer than your other natural teeth and aside from some post procedure sensitivity, provide full relief from pulp inflammation. Please contact our office for more information or to schedule an appointment today.