Endodontics

According to the American Association of Endodontists, root canal therapy is the most feared dental procedure of all. Despite this stigma, root canal therapy is actually a pain-free, quick and relatively comfortable procedure. In fact, it relieves your pain and can prevent more complicated oral issues down the road.

A root canal is a term used to describe the natural cavity in the center of a tooth. This area contains a soft area known as the pulp chamber that houses the nerves. If this area becomes irritated or infected due to cavities, trauma or decay, root canal therapy is necessary. If left untreated, the infection can cause an abscess, which can lead to swelling of the face and neck and bone loss around the roots of teeth.

Endodontists specialize in oral trauma and are often able to save teeth that have been injured in accidents or sports-related activities.  Traumatic injuries include root fractures as well as teeth that have been chipped, dislodged, or completely knocked-out and should be seen immediately by an endodontist.

A pulpotomy is a minimally invasive procedure performed in children who are experiencing pain from a cavity. Underneath the exterior of a tooth is a pocket filled with nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. This is known as the “pulp” of the tooth. The procedure is required when a pulp of the tooth has been exposed by a bad cavity. This can be very painful because the sensitive nerves and tissue are vulnerable.

If your child is complaining of a toothache, it might be because he or she has a large cavity. In this case, we’ll do a pulpotomy, a common procedure for decayed baby molars, to remove the damaged pulp.

For more information on cavities, or dental care for your child call Bayview Dental Care at (850) 474-0404 to schedule an appointment.