COMPLETE EDUCATIONAL LIBRARY
Guide to Dental Benefits
Your endodontist wants you to understand how dental insurance works and how to make it work best for you. You should also understand how the treatment your endodontist provided works with your dental plan. The contract your employer negotiated with your insurance...
Insurance Resources
Thank you for selecting Eastlake Endodontics for your treatment needs. We feel it is a privelege to be involved in your dental care and hope to exceed your expectations. We have compiled a list of useful information for your convenience. As you continue to read down...
Why did my dentist recommend I come to see you (instead of just doing this himself?)?
Trust your dentist to do what is best for you. He understands what you need and the most appropriate way to preserve your dental heath. Keep on reading to hear the “why.” I’ll do my best to explain, keeping in mind that all situations are unique and may not apply in...
4 ways your teeth can affect your sleep
Can the dentist help with sleep issues? Find out below and thank you for visiting Eastlake Endodontics. What’s a dentist doing talking about sleep? Sleep medicine dentistry has been around for several decades, but the knowledge that our teeth affect how we sleep...
Is this tooth bothering my sinuses?
Do you suffer from chronic sinus problems? Maybe the dentist can help! Read more below and thank you for visiting Eastlake Endodontics. Is This Tooth Bothering My Sinuses? For years patients with chronic sinus issues have asked this question at the dental...
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Endodontics?
Endodontics is a specialty of Dentistry that deals with diseases of the dental pulp and its supporting structures. The dental pulp is the “live” part of the tooth and is located in the space and channels with the tooth itself. Endodontists are Dentists with special post-graduate training in this field. Endodontists are also experienced at finding the cause of oral and facial pain that has been difficult to diagnose. Although General Dentists can perform Endodontic treatment, patients are often referred to an Endodontist when the case is complicated or more difficult than usual.
In order to understand Endodontic treatment, it helps to know something about the anatomy of a tooth. Teeth have several layers. The outside layer of the tooth is composed of a hard layer called Enamel. Enamel is supported by an inner layer called Dentin, which has at its center a soft tissue known as the Pulp. The pulp contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective
Endodontists are experienced at finding the cause of oral and facial pain that has been difficult to diagnose.
tissue that are responsible for forming the surrounding Dentin and Enamel during tooth development. The pulp receives its nourishment supply from vessels which enter the end of the root. Although the pulp is important during development of the tooth, it is not necessary for function of the tooth. The tooth continues to be nourished by the tissues surrounding it even after the pulp is removed.
What are signs and symptoms of an inflamed tooth?
Indications for treatment include prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, discoloration of the tooth, swelling or tenderness of the tooth or adjacent gums. Sometimes there are no symptoms. Check out our URGENT CARE guide for short term help until you can be seen.
How long will treatements be?
Initial appointments for diagnosis only usually last about 30 minutes. If treatment is anticipated, appointment duration may range from 45 minutes to 90 minutes or more.
How can Endodontic treatment help me?
The Endodontist removes the inflamed or infected pulp, carefully cleans and shapes the canal system and then seals the prepared space. Most treatment is now performed in a single appointment ranging from 30-90 minutes (depending on the number of canals). Once treatment is completed, you may be instructed to return to your dentist for permanent reconstruction. The restoration of the tooth is an important part of treatment because it seals the cleaned canals from the oral environment, protects the tooth and restores it to function.
Will I feel pain during or after procedure?
Toothache pain is the main reason for patients seeking treatment. Fortunately, modern anesthetics can make the procedure pain free in most cases. Seeking treatment early makes the procedure more comfortable, so don’t wait. When caught early, treatment should feel no different than having a “regular” filling.
For the first few days after treatment, there may be some sensitivity to biting pressure, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. Sometimes over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications (like Advil) are recommended for a day or two. Dr. Richards can prescribe other medications but they are rarely required.
What would I need Endodontic Services?
Endodontic treatment is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected. The most common reasons for inflammation or infection are deep cavities (caries), repeated dental procedures, cracks or chips. Trauma can also cause inflammation and often shows up as discoloration of the tooth. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess.
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