Endodontics is a branch of dentistry recognized by the American Dental Association involving treatment of the pulp (root canal) and surrounding tissues of the tooth. When you look at your tooth in the mirror, what you see is the crown. The rest of the tooth, the portion hidden beneath the gum line, is called the root. Though the outer portion of the root is a hard tissue called dentin, the inside channel or "root canal" contains a pulp of soft tissue, blood vessels and nerves. Bacteria that are introduced into the pulp as a result of tooth decay, periodontal disease, tooth fracture or other problems, can severely damage the pulp. When that happens, an endodontic specialist removes the diseased pulp to save the tooth and prevent further infection and inflammation. After successful endodontic treatment, the tooth continues to perform normally.
I'm worried about x-rays. Should I be?
While x-rays will be necessary during your endodontics treatment, we use an advanced non-film computerized system, called computer digital radiography (CDR), that produces radiation levels up to 90 percent lower than those of already low dose conventional dental x-ray machines. For more information see a more thorough explanation of the benefits of CDR in our section titled latest technology, or contact our office .
What about infection?
Again, there's no need for concern. We adhere to the most rigorous standards of infection control advocated by OSHA, the Centers for Disease Control and the American Dental Association. Please refer to the section titled infection control for more specific information.
What happens after treatment?
When your root canal therapy has been completed, a record of your treatment will be sent to your restorative dentist. You should contact your dentists office in about a week to make arrangements for the restoration of your tooth. This allows time for us to communicate with them about the status of your tooth. The temporary is designed to last until you can see them but please be sure to chew anything hard or fibrous on the opposite side until you can get in to see your dentist. You can brush the temporary and are encouraged to do so for the health of the remaining tooth and gum. Your restorative dentist will decide on what type of restoration is necessary to protect your tooth. It is rare for endodontic patients to experience complications after routine endodontic treatment or microsurgery. If a problem does occur, however, we are available at all times to respond. If your call is after-hours you will be instructed on how to reach Dr. Allen.
What if I am really nervous about the procedure?
Please let us know if you are particularly anxious about your visit to our office. In general, you should view root canal therapy as you would a filling at your dentist's office. Since we only do root canal therapy here at Southwest Michigan Endodontics, this procedure is predictable and painless. We do know that some individuals are anxious even for routine dental care. If you are feeling anxious about your appointment, let us know. We have various methods available to help you.
