There are many types of dentists who have specialized training in certain areas of oral health – and an endodontist is one of them. Derived from the Greek words, “endo,” meaning inside, and “odont,” meaning tooth, an endodontist is a dentist that specializes in treating issues that occur inside the tooth.
Let’s just say that an endodontist is highly trained at saving teeth.
What Endodontists Do
Endodontists work to preserve teeth while healing them from the inside. This special field takes in-depth training and some specialized tools.
While the list can get extensive, the most common things that endodontists may encounter are:
- Severe tooth infections needing root canals
- Complex dental injuries
- Apicoectomies
They focus on things that impact the tooth’s pulp, such as:
- Tooth decay
- Abscesses
- Tooth trauma or injury
The tooth pulp is the area inside a tooth that is full of things like blood vessels, nerves, and tissue. To have a healthy tooth, this pulp area needs to remain safe and untouched. Unfortunately, when tooth decay occurs, the bacteria can eat their way into the protected center of the tooth. Though, multiple dental procedures on the same tooth or traumatic injury can also endanger the area.
When the tooth pulp is no longer safe, it can become infected and inflamed. And it is going to hurt.
It’s time to see an endodontist.
When to See an Endodontist
Depending on the issue, your dentist may be able to provide the treatment your teeth need. However, there are times when a trained endodontist should be seen – especially when it comes to handling the intricate parts within the pulp of a tooth.
Here are a few of the most common reasons why you may be referred to an endodontist:
Bacterial Infections
If you have been experiencing intense pain, sensitivity to hot and cold drinks, and extreme discomfort when chewing, you may have an infected tooth. If left untreated, a small bump filled with pus and blood may form along the gumline of the infected tooth. This is another sign of infection – and it should be addressed immediately.
Root Canals
Root canals are often the go-to when the decay or infection is too far beyond filling in the cavity. These are deep cavities that are too close to the root, leaving it susceptible to infection. During the procedure, the endodontist will clean out all of the infection and inflamed tissue, leaving it free of bacteria.
Tooth Injuries or Trauma
Car accidents, falls, fights, or other traumas can leave teeth injured and cracked. Sometimes these cracks can lead all the way to the pulp. If so, an endodontist uses delicate care to repair the teeth and protect the pulp.
Ready to Make an Appointment with an Endodontist?
If you are feeling extreme tooth pain, have sustained injuries, or have been told that you need a root canal, it is time to make an appointment with an endodontist.
At Dental Partners of Vero Beach we will either be able to treat your root canal right here in the office or coordinate the appointments with one of our prefered Endodontists in the area. Find healing in the state-of-the-art treatment programs you will find at Dental Partners of Vero Beach, Schwibner & Associates. Contact us today at (772) 569-4118 or book an appointment online.