If your dentist in Saskatoon has recently referred you to an endodontist, you may be wondering about what it is that an endodontist actually does. This is an excellent idea, as the more you understand about a procedure and specialist before you go, the more likely it is that you will experience a better and more successful outcome. In this article, our team at Mount Royal Dental breaks down the role of an endodontist in dentistry.
What Does an Endodontist Do?
Understanding more about the different sorts of endodontic procedures that can be performed on patients allows you to understand whether or not you truly need this type of dental work. Endodontists have to undergo at least two additional years of training beyond dental school, which allows them to have extensive knowledge on diagnosing and treating tooth and gum problems beyond what a dentist near you can diagnose.
Here are the three most common types of endodontic procedures performed by endodontists today:
#1 Root Canals
Root canal therapy in Saskatoon is the most common endodontic procedure performed today, and you have likely heard of it before reading this article. This procedure is performed on patients who have an infection in the center of their tooth and is performed to remove the infection and prevent the tooth from having to be extracted. During root canal treatment near you, your endodontist will provide you with a local anesthetic to numb the affected area before using a small drill to create a hole in your tooth to access and remove the infected tissue inside. They will then disinfect the interior of the tooth before filling and sealing it. An endodontist will often place a crown over the tooth to provide it with extra protection and strength.
#2 Apicoectomy
Another type of endodontic procedure often performed is an apicoectomy, which is an option offered to patients who are not viable candidates for root canal treatment. This procedure involves an experienced endodontist removing the tip of a tooth’s root and then sealing the tooth to protect it. This requires that the endodontist make a small incision in the gums to access the root of the tooth. When you get an apicoectomy, your endodontist will take the time to explain the full process to you and provide you with instructions on how to ensure a smooth and easy recovery.
#3 Treatment for Cracked Teeth
There are a few different forms of cracked teeth. If you have a cracked tooth, depending on the nature of your specific crack, your dentist may decide to refer you to an endodontist to have it repaired. Cracked teeth can be sorted into categories, such as
- Vertical root fracture
- Craze lines
- Split tooth
All of these forms of cracks need to be treated, or the tooth could become compromised and lost. Treatment options for cracked teeth include dental crowns, fillings, and endodontic surgery.
In Need of Endodontic Services?
If you are experiencing a dental condition and you are unsure if you require endodontic treatment, start by visiting our team at Mount Royal Dental. Our dentist is happy to provide you with a thorough and comprehensive evaluation to determine the cause of your issues and decide if you need to be referred to an endodontist. Please do not hesitate to reach out to our team of dedicated dental professionals and book a consultation today.