Preserve Your Natural Teeth at Lakeshore Dental
At Lakeshore Dental, we are committed to helping you preserve your natural teeth whenever possible. Endodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry focused on treating the inside of your teeth—the root canals and pulp. Endodontic treatments, such as root canal therapy, can save teeth that might otherwise need to be extracted. Dr. Alexa Crete provides expert endodontic care, ensuring that your treatment is comfortable, effective, and designed to protect your long-term oral health.
What is Endodontics?
Endodontics is the field of dentistry that deals with the treatment of the dental pulp and tissues surrounding the roots of a tooth. When the pulp—the soft tissue inside your tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue—becomes inflamed or infected, endodontic treatment is needed to save the tooth and prevent further damage. The most common type of endodontic treatment is root canal therapy, which removes the infected pulp and restores the health of the tooth.
When is Endodontic Treatment Needed?
Endodontic treatment is typically required when the pulp inside the tooth becomes inflamed or infected due to:
- Deep Decay (Cavities): If a cavity is left untreated and the decay reaches the pulp, it can cause infection and pain.
- Trauma or Injury: A cracked or chipped tooth can expose the pulp to bacteria, leading to infection.
- Multiple Dental Procedures: Teeth that have undergone several dental treatments may develop pulp inflammation over time.
- Tooth Abscess: An abscess, or pus-filled infection, can form at the root of the tooth, requiring endodontic care to treat the infection and save the tooth.
Benefits of Endodontic Treatment
- Preserves Natural Teeth: Endodontic treatment helps you keep your natural teeth, which is always preferable to extraction.
- Relieves Pain: Treating an infection or inflammation within the tooth can eliminate pain and discomfort.
- Prevents the Spread of Infection: Endodontic care addresses the infection at its source, preventing it from spreading to other areas of your mouth or body.
- Restores Function: After endodontic treatment, your tooth will be fully restored, allowing you to chew and speak normally.
FAQs About Endodontics at Lakeshore Dental
Is endodontic treatment painful?
Endodontic treatments, including root canals, are performed under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Modern techniques and anesthesia make the experience comfortable and pain-free.
How long does endodontic treatment take?
Most endodontic treatments can be completed in one or two visits, depending on the severity of the infection and the complexity of the case.
Preserve Your Natural Teeth with Endodontic Care at Lakeshore Dental
If you are experiencing tooth pain or believe you may need endodontic treatment, contact Lakeshore Dental at (970) 221-1926 to schedule a consultation. Dr. Crete will assess your oral health and provide expert endodontic care to save your teeth and restore your smile.