Endodontics In Plymouth, MI: How This Treatment Saves Smiles

Root canal therapy – otherwise known as endodontic care – is a type of dentistry that zeroes in dental pulp diseases and injuries that happen inside a tooth’s soft tissues. This type of intervention is meant to preserve a natural tooth while relieving pain.

Upwards of 14 million teeth receive endodontic treatment annually, making it one of the most common dental treatments in North America. Not only do you restore biting and chewing function to your tooth after undergoing root canal therapy, you’re able to smile comfortably and confidently for years following your treatment.

What’s involved with root canal therapy?

Below your tooth’s hard enamel exterior is a canal that contains pulp. Made up of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue, the pulp does much of its work while teeth are developing, meaning that adult teeth can survive without it since they draw nutrients from surrounding tissues. When a tooth’s pulp becomes inflamed or infected, by removing the pulp, the infection is also removed.

When deep decay, tooth cracks, and/or tooth injury happen, infection can cause severe pain, sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, gums that are sore and/or discolored, and small pimple-like bumps on your gums may also be present. At Select Dental Group, when endodontic therapy is recommended to a patient, it’s for the purpose of removing pain quickly and permanently, and for saving your tooth.

It’s a well-known fact that root canal therapy has a reputation for being painful, but we can say with complete certainty that the procedure actually relieves pain. Our team is dedicated to your comfort, and we’ll ensure that you receive the anesthetic and/or sedation option that works best for you.

Is it better to go to an endodontist for a root canal?

While general dentists are trained to perform root canals, endodontists are specialists with advanced training and expertise in this area. Endodontists focus solely on diagnosing and treating issues related to the dental pulp and tissues surrounding the roots of teeth. If you have a complex case or if your dentist recommends it, seeing an endodontist can provide you with a higher level of specialized care and often better outcomes.

Why would a dentist refer you to an endodontist?

Dentists may refer you to an endodontist if your case requires more specialized care. This could be due to factors such as a difficult root canal, previous failed root canal treatments, or complex anatomy of the tooth that requires advanced techniques. Referrals ensure that you receive the most appropriate and effective treatment for your specific needs.

Have additional questions you’d like to ask? Call us today! As your dentist in Plymouth, our goal is to help you optimize your oral health while smiling with confidence!