Endodontist

Endodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that deals with the intricate anatomy found inside the teeth. The word “Endodontics” means “inside the tooth” and relates to the tooth pulp, vessels, connective tissues, and nerves. Brooklyn Endodontists undergo extra dental training after finishing dental school to master performing simple and complex endodontic procedures, especially root canals.

Historically, a tooth with a necrotic nerve would be pulled right away, but endodontists are now capable of saving the tooth in most cases. Alternatively, removing the inner pulp structures, and then filling the resulting preparation with a cap restores function and health to diseased teeth.

Symptoms of endodontic issues:

• Teeth that are extra sensitive to cold
• Toothache when chewing and biting
• Darkening of a tooth
• Tenderness in the gums
• Pain and swelling in the nearby lymph nodes

Reasons for Endodontic Therapy

Root canal therapy in Brooklyn, NY is offered to restore the natural tooth. While there are many advanced restorative options available, most dentists agree that one cannot substitute for healthy and natural teeth.

Here are a few major reasons for inner tooth damage:

Fractures and chips – When a part of the surface or anatomical crown of the tooth has broken off, root canal treatment may be required. The removal of the crown portion leaves the pulp exposed, which can be problematic.

Injuries – Trauma to the teeth can be caused by either a direct or indirect hit to the face. Some traumas cause a tooth to become luxated or dislodged from its alveolar socket. Root canal treatment is usually needed right after the endodontist has successfully stabilized the injured tooth.

Dislodgement – If a tooth has been knocked out of the alveolar socket, it is necessary to rinse it and secure it back into the jaw as quickly as possible. If this is impossible, insert the tooth in a special solution (available at pharmacies) or cold milk. These procedures will keep the inner pulp of the tooth alive while urgent dental care is looked for. The tooth will be secured in its socket using a dental splint, and the Brooklyn endodontist or dentist will then perform a root canal therapy to restore the tooth.

Bacterial infections – Oral anaerobic bacteria are the main cause of endodontic problems. Bacteria penetrate the pulp through tiny holes and cracks in the teeth caused by tooth decay or trauma. The resulting inflammation and bacterial infection jeopardize the affected tooth and may cause an abscess formation.

What is an endodontic procedure like?

Root canal procedure usually takes one, two, or sometimes three appointments. Complete X-rays of the teeth will be taken and examined before the treatment.

First, novocaine will be administered, and a rubber dam (protective sheet) will be placed to ensure that the site remains dry and clean during the process. An opening will be made on the top surface of the tooth, and the pulp tissues will be completely removed using small handheld instruments.

The space will then be prepared and filled with plastic gutta-percha. Gutta-percha is an endodontic filling material that is similar to rubber. Root canal cement will be applied to the apex to ensure that the root canals are completely sealed. Very often, a temporary filling is placed to restore function to the tooth before the permanent restorative procedure. During the final visit, a permanent restoration or crown will be placed.

If you have concerns or questions about the endodontist Brooklyn adjacent, please contact Brooklyn Dentist. We offer root canals for patients residing in Brooklyn Heights, Crown Heights, Fort Greene, Park Slope, and other parts of the borough.

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