The Importance of Endodontic Care 

The Importance of Endodontic Care

 When consulting with a cosmetic dentist in the Galleria area, one of the first things you’ll be asked about is endodontic Houston and endodontic Galleria. For those of you unfamiliar with this dental procedure, we’ll spend a bit of time explaining what it is, the reasons they’re necessary, and the benefits of seeking endodontic treatments such as root canals, root amputations and cracked teeth.

 The word endodontic is Greek in origin and translates in English to “inside the tooth.” An endodontic dentist treats the soft tissue inside teeth that’s also known as pulp. Problems arise when pulp becomes inflamed, thereby causing pain and sensitivity inside the tooth. Symptoms of bad pulp includes adverse reactions to hot and cold foods and/or liquids, difficulty while chewing solid foods, and discoloration of the teeth.

 What are some of the primary factors that cause tooth pulp to go bad?

• Bacterial infections that invade tooth pulp and can lead to the formation of abscesses
• Fractures and chips that exposes pulp, resulting in the need for a root canal
• Injuries to teeth that cause them to become loose or dislodged within the mouth
• Removal of teeth from the mouth and requires immediate dental assistance

 In times past, a dentist would simply remove a tooth with diseased pulp. Thanks to today’s sophisticated dental techniques and equipment, however, endodontists can now preserve damaged teeth in most cases by extracting the bad pulp and placing a crown as substitute for the removed portion of the tooth or teeth. Endodontist Houston Saving the tooth is the preferred strategy so that patients can continue to enjoy natural, healthy teeth.

 Generally speaking, a root canal takes about two or three dental visits to complete. First, the endodontist or an assistant will take x-rays of the affected tooth or teeth. Second, the patient will be given an anesthetic and a protective sheet so that there’s a minimum of saliva. Endodontist Houston Third, the dentist will open up the tooth and remove the infected pulp. Fourth, a rubber-like material will be placed over the tooth to seal it off, as well as a temporary crown. A permanent crown will likely be installed in future visits.

 Got questions about endodontic procedures? Be sure to consult with a Houston cosmetic dentist Galleria Dental today!