3 Common Endodontic Procedures

Endodontic procedures are important in keeping dental structures intact. These treatments focus on treating dental damage and diseases that affect the inner structures of teeth. Understanding these procedures can motivate you to set an appointment. Here are the three common endodontic procedures that you can discuss with your endodontist.

1. Pulpectomy

Of all endodontic procedures, this one often applies to children. The dentist will perform this treatment on baby teeth. The pulp contains nerves, connective tissue, and blood vessels. Pulpectomy removes the pulp from the roots and crown. The dentist will use this procedure to keep a baby tooth in place after severe trauma or decay.

Dentists want children to keep baby teeth because each one reserves a dental space for permanent teeth. A child who loses baby teeth earlier than expected can result in dental shifting, crowding, and misalignment. It can also make eating and speaking difficult for the child. The dentist will use a filling that will be absorbed by the body when the adult tooth appears.

A partial pulpectomy removes the pulp in the tooth’s roots and upper chamber. The dentist will remove the damaged part of the pulp. If necessary, the dentist will empty the upper pulp chamber. Cleaning and disinfecting the tooth will follow. The dentist will then fill it.

2. Root canal treatment

Root canals are common endodontic procedures. The dentist will restore a tooth with severe decay or damage rather than extract it. Infected or damaged pulp will need removal. The endodontist will clean, disinfect, and dry the pulp chamber. Filling it with gutta-percha will follow.

Endodontic procedures like this restore the dental structure. Root canals also protect the tooth and prevent future damage. The dentist will perform a thorough assessment of the patient’s tooth. Then, the dentist will perform the following:

• Local anesthesia with optional dental sedation for people with dental anxiety
• Placement of the dental dam
• Drilling a small access hole
• Removal of the pulp
• Canal shaping
• Filling the canals
• Sealing the treated tooth
• Placing the dental crown

Endodontic procedures like root canals are not painful. The dentist will always prioritize the patient’s comfort and health. Most people find relief after a root canal procedure. Any level of throbbing pain after the treatment will need re-treatment right away.

3. Apicoectomy

Sometimes, a traditional root canal is not enough. A tooth with severe damage may have an infected section of the dental root. For this, the dentist will cut through the gum tissue and jawbone. The dentist will create an opening in the bone. This will enable the dentist to remove the infected tissue and clean that area. Sealing it will follow.

The dentist will cover the area with gum tissue and close it with sutures. Apicoectomy will take two dental appointments. The patient will need to come back for suture removal. The patient will then start to heal and enjoy rejuvenated dental health.

Knowing more about endodontic procedures can help you decide what applies to your needs

Endodontic procedures can bring back your dental health. They can also make you look and feel better. Regular dental checks can help spot problems that need endodontic procedures. Working with your dentist can make these treatments easier.

Are you considering having endodontic procedures in the Santa Rosa area? Get more information at https://santarosaendodontics.com.

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