Dental health can be overlooked by many, and discussing dental health isn’t something that’s often brought up in everyday conversation. There are many reasons why people don’t discuss dental health or want to see a dental professional. This could be due to a variety of factors, such as financial, mental, or even due to a previous negative experience.
Understanding what your local Boynton Beach endodontist can do for you may help ease some of the negative feelings you have around your dental health procedures and treatments.
What Is An Endodontist?
An endodontist is a type of dental specialist who deals with complex dental problems that could affect the various blood vessels and nerves within your teeth. The mass of nerves and blood vessels is also known as the pulp. Endodontists are specially trained to use advanced techniques to treat the various nerves and blood vessels within your tooth, including the root. The root of your tooth is the section that extends into your gums and holds it in place.
As they are specialized dental professionals, endodontists do their utmost to ensure that you receive a measure of pain relief while protecting your natural tooth as much as possible.
When Should I See an Endodontist?
Once you go in for your bi-annual dental check-up, your dentist may refer you to a specialist dental practitioner, such as an endodontist. You are always welcome to discuss any fears or concerns you have with your dentist, and they should do their best to answer any questions you may have.
If you’re not due for one of your bi-annual check-ups, but are experiencing persistent pain in one of your teeth or a section in your mouth, you may want to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. By treating dental pain sooner rather than later, you lessen the risks of additional complications.
Other indicators that you may need to visit your dentist as soon as possible include sensitivity to different temperatures, as well as swelling in your face, gums or teeth. Keep in mind that receiving proper care for any dental pain you are experiencing will ensure that you maintain your dental health. Good dental care will also last you for the rest of your life.
Why See An Endodontist?
Endodontists can treat damaged nerves and blood vessels within your tooth, including the root. Damage can be caused by the following:
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is not only the result of poor oral hygiene. Taking small steps, such as scheduling bi-annual dental check-ups, is one of the best things you can do for your health. A dental check-up done by a professional will indicate if any untreated problems could worsen over time. These problems include cavities, which can cause inflammation or infection if left untreated.
Traumatic Injuries
While less likely to occur than tooth decay, traumatic injuries are a possibility. If you stumble and fall, depending on how you land, you could end up with a chipped or cracked tooth. Other injuries that can affect your teeth include being hit, or even unknowingly biting down on something hard.
Fractured Tooth
A fractured (or cracked) tooth can occur due to a variety of factors, such as traumatic injuries. Other common reasons include age and teeth grinding. An unfortunate side effect of this type of injury is that, unless there are signs such as swelling or pain, you may not know that your tooth is cracked. That’s one more reason why regular dental checkups are so important.
What Treatments Are Performed By Endodontists?
Depending on the cause of your damaged tooth, an endodontist may perform the following procedures:
Root Canals
If the nerves and blood vessels within your tooth are beyond saving, your dental specialist may recommend a root canal. This procedure removes the infected nerves and pulp from within your tooth. The space is then disinfected, filled, and finally sealed. The seal ensures that you won’t be impacted by the damaged or infected nerve tissue and blood vesselsThis procedure allows you to keep a tooth that may otherwise have been extracted.
Tooth Extraction And Replacement
In extreme cases, a tooth may be damaged beyond repair. An endodontist can safely remove it, followed with dental implant surgery. Depending on your specific needs, your tooth may be replaced with supportive prosthetics made to look like natural teeth to help restore appearance and function.
Endodontist Care In Boynton Beach
The compassionate and reliable dental specialist team at Eriks Dental Group has got you covered for all your dental needs, from family dentistry to endodontic care.
To learn more about our wide variety of services, or if you would like to book an appointment, contact us today at 561-733-4004.