What is an Endodontist?        

An endodontist specializes in diagnosing and treating tooth problems that deal primarily with tooth “pulp,” or the inner tissues, nerves, and blood vessels housed inside the tooth. Complex issues can occur in this part of the tooth, including abscesses or other pain-inducing problems which may require root canals or other interventions. Endodontists treat the tooth's root and use complex methods to preserve as much of the natural tooth as possible.

What is the difference between an Endodontist and a General Dentist?  

While general dentistry includes cleaning, maintenance, placing fillings, and even cosmetic concerns, an endodontist focuses on internal issues of the tooth, including main pain and, thus root related concerns. For example, a general dentist may only perform a few root canals a month, but an endodontist will likely perform two dozen or more a week. This gives them the skill and experience to provide excellent outcomes.

What is Root Canal Therapy?              

Root canal treatment is a common and straightforward procedure that relieves dental pain and saves your tooth due to inflammation or infection inside the roots of your tooth.          

Root canal therapy treats the inside of a tooth, specifically the pulp, a soft tissue under the white enamel and the dentin (hard layer). The pulp contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue that build the surrounding hard tissues of the tooth. It extends from the crown of the tooth down to the tip of the roots. Once fully formed, a tooth can survive without the pulp because the tooth continues to be nourished by other surrounding tissues. We strive to provide you with the best root canal Detroit has to offer, so call today.    

Can all teeth be treated?            

Advances in technology means most teeth can be treated. It may be possible that a tooth cannot be saved due to inadequate bone support, root fracture, or tooth that cannot be restored usually due to deep decay.

At our dental office in Detroit, we believe in saving any tooth.              

Extraction is always our last option. When the pulp of a tooth becomes infected, there are only two options: extract the tooth or, preferably, save your tooth by completing a root canal and restoring it with a crown or filling.

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Root Canal Procedure        

There is a misconception that root canal therapy is painful but we ensure you are comfortably numb before starting any treatment.

We also offer conscious sedations such as nitrous oxide or laughing gas to make sure you are relaxed during your treatment. The procedure involves carefully removing the pulp inside the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the area, shaping the root canal(s), and placing a temporary filling to seal the space. We will place a crown or filling on the tooth to protect and seal it so it can be restored to full function.

Types of Root Canals        

The extent of damage to your tooth and several other factors will determine the type of root canal that is best for you. A proper evaluation and diagnosis by a specialist are vital in deciding which option will offer the optimal outcome.              

Non-Surgical Root Canal                    

A non-surgical root canal is similar to a deep filling, although it deals with the inner part of the tooth rather than just enamel. A non-surgical root canal is often used as a conservative option for tooth issues that are beyond a cavity but have not yet become severe. During a non-surgical root canal, your endodontist will drill far into your tooth (farther than for a standard filling) to the hollow where nerves are located. The tooth will then be cleaned and filled.

Apicoectomy                    

If just the root of the tooth or the “apex” is affected by an infection, you may need an apicoectomy, also called root-end surgery. Instead of drilling through the top of the tooth, the problem is accessed directly through the gum into the root. Then, the tip or root of the tooth, including any infected tissue, is removed to prevent further infection. To seal the root tip, a tiny amount of filling is used to complete the procedure.

Pulpotomy and Pulpectomy                    

A pulpotomy is used when the tissue in only the crown of the tooth is infected and must be removed. If there is an issue with the tooth pulp in both the crown and the roots, this requires a pulpectomy where all nerve tissue and pulp are removed from the tooth. In either case, once the tissue and blood vessels have been excavated and cleaned, fillings will be placed, and typically a crown as well.

Signs of Needing a Root Canal        

There are no specific symptoms when it comes to needing root canal treatment.  

That is why it is so important to maintain your regular dental visits. There are some signs to look out for, including:            

         
• Pain
         
• Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold
         
• Foul taste
         
• Swelling
         
• Discoloration of the tooth
         
• Pain while chewing
         
• Tenderness to touch
         
• Drainage and tenderness in the lymph nodes and neighboring bone/gum tissues
       

Recovery from Root Canal Therapy        

You can expect your tooth to be sensitive for a few days after your visit. This is especially true if you were experiencing pain prior to your surgery. Over-the-counter or prescription medications can help relieve any discomfort. After your root canal, you will need to treat the area with caution because your temporary crown or filling can fracture. That is why we recommend a soft food diet to minimize chewing in the area until your permanent crown or filling is sealed to protect your tooth. Once your crown or filling has been placed, your new tooth should last as long as any of your other natural teeth.

Endodontic treatment is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected. The most common cause of infection is bacteria finding its way inside the tooth through deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, shrinkage or breakage of an existing filling, or a crack or chip in the tooth          

Reasons for Root Canal Treatment                

It may not be apparent that you require root canal therapy because tiny hairline cracks in the teeth caused by trauma or chewing hard foods can be invisible to the naked eye. Once the pulp is infected, it cannot heal on its own and must be treated as soon as possible. If not taken care of, an infected pulp may result in a chronic, active bacterial infection that can grow into an abscess and even spread to nearby teeth.

Why Lakeshore Dental?              

A dedicated endodontist can make all the difference in the outcome and overall results of a root canal or other endodontic procedures.            

At Lakeshore, we pride ourselves on completing all treatments in-house with our specialists. This means seamless, comprehensive care. Dr. Thomas is a skilled, patient-centric endodontist who specializes in root canals and can provide the most outstanding experience available in the Detroit area.

Schedule Your Detroit, MI, Endodontics Consultation at Lakeshore Dental Today.            

Stop the pain and discomfort.

FAQs      

Is Endodontic treatment painful?                    

A local anesthetic will be used before the procedure to avoid pain during the root canal. After the procedure, most patients have significant relief from prior ongoing tooth pain.          

What are the risks associated with Endodontic treatment?                    

Endodontic treatment is safe and effective, but as with many dental procedures, rare risks can occur, including infection or reduced tooth integrity.              

Will I need a dental crown after my root canal?                    

Whether you need a crown depends on the tooth's location and whether your endodontist recommends the extra protection to prevent future damage.            

Will I need to have someone drive me home following Endodontic procedures?                    

If only local anesthetic is used during the procedure, you can resume regular activity immediately. If any sedation is part of your treatment plan, you will need a driver and some assistance for several hours.                

How long should I wait to eat or drink following a root canal?                    

After a few hours, the numbness should ease, and you can start with soft food and beverages. Avoid very hot or cold food and drinks for several days while your tooth heals.          

How much does root canal treatment cost?                    

Root canal costs can vary depending on the tooth's location that needs repair and the extent of the procedure, including whether or not a crown will be needed.