Endodontists are
dental specialists that focus on the treatment of pulp diseases
through root canal therapies. Pulp tissue is composed of nerve
fibers, blood vessels and connective tissues that reside
inside a space within the roots of the tooth, thereby the
name root canal. Patients are often referred to an
endodontist from their general dentist to diagnose and treat severe
or difficult root canal related problems.
Diseases of the
pulp tissue can be caused by deep cavities, extensive dental
restorations, dental fractures and cracks. Many patients may
already be in a great deal of pain and discomfort when
referred. Prompt root canal therapy can often help
eliminated the pain and suffering. Delayed treatment on the
other hand may lead to infections that can spread into bone
structures beyond the offending tooth.
During a root canal
procedure, the diseased or infected contents inside the affected
tooth are removed. The remaining root canal space is disinfected
and filled with an innert material called gutta percha. This
filling is designed to prevent ingression of bacteria back into the
root canals. Once the tooth is healthy again, the referring
dentists will then restore the root canaled tooth with a crown or
permenant filling.
