Causes of oral pain such as toothaches or cracked teeth can often be difficult to pinpoint. Because of the vast network of nerves in the mouth, the pain of a damaged or diseased tooth can be felt in another tooth and/or in the head, neck, or ear. An endodontist is a specialist who diagnoses and treats this type of pain.

Pulp damage is sometimes caused by trauma to the mouth. An endodontist specializes in treating these traumatic injuries. For example, an injury to a child’s permanent tooth that is not fully developed can cause the root to stop growing. Procedures called apexification and revascularization may be done to stimulate the growth of an immature tooth. An endodontist is specially trained in procedures such as these as well as in replanting teeth that have been displaced.

A local anesthetic will be given to thoroughly numb your tooth. A protective sheet called a rubber dam will be placed around the tooth to keep it clean and dry during treatment. The infected or inflamed tissue is then removed and a filling material is placed into the canals. The number of visits will depend on your particular case. Most treatments take two visits, but some are just a single visit. Occasionally, three or more appointments are needed.

Root canal treatment or endodontic therapy has a very high degree of success. We will discuss with you the chances of success before initiating any procedure to help you make an informed decision.

When your endodontic therapy is completed, Dr Limosani will explain whether or not your tooth will need additional treatment at your general dentist’s office. He will explain what type of restoration he placed and what, if any, additional treatment your tooth will require. He will work closely with your general dentist to provide the best outcome for you.

We would like to see you in our office one year after completion of the root canal treatment to ensure that the tooth is healing properly. There will be no charge for this follow up visit, and you will be contacted when we feel it is appropriate to check the area.