When you have a severe toothache or notice that your gums are red and swollen around one of your teeth, all you want is to feel better and restore your oral health. You’ll probably call your dentist for an emergency consultation, but they may refer you to an endodontist, making you wonder what to expect and why your regular dentist can’t fix the issue.
Even though endodontics in Bastrop, TX, may feel confusing, we want you to know that referring you to a dental specialist might be the best option. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain what endodontics is, some common endodontic procedures, and when to contact your Bastrop dentist.
What Is Endodontics in Dentistry?
Endodontics is a specialized field of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing and treating issues related to the dental pulp and the roots of your tooth. To become an endodontist, a dentist must undergo two or three additional years of advanced training after graduating from dental school. Their rigorous education focuses heavily on saving teeth instead of extracting them.
During this time, they focus entirely on complex treatments, including specialized endodontic treatment; because of their unique qualifications, our dental office sometimes refers patients to an endodontist for complicated root canals and other targeted care
Common Endodontic Procedures
Endodontists are qualified to perform numerous procedures; some of the most common include the following:
- Root canal therapy — If your tooth's pulp chamber is inflamed or infected, an endodontist can remove the infection and clean the inside of your tooth, often preserving your natural teeth from needing extraction.
- Endodontic retreatment — If you’ve had a root canal that doesn’t heal properly or gets infected again, an endodontist can perform a second root canal.
- Apicoectomy — This common surgical procedure is used when routine root canal therapy doesn’t work. The endodontist makes a small incision in your gums, removes the infection, and places a filling in that area.
- Trauma — If your tooth gets knocked out or severely broken due to sports or other dental injuries, an endodontist can work to save your tooth.
When to Call Your Dentist
We encourage you to give us a call if you experience any of these dental concerns:
- Tooth pain
- Tooth sensitivity
- Unusual redness or swelling
- Tooth discoloration
Questions About Root Canal Treatment in Bastrop, TX?
If you need endodontic care near Bastrop, TX, our experienced team will happily assess your oral health and work to get you the quality care you deserve. We want every patient to achieve a healthy, beautiful, comfortable smile.
To schedule a consultation or appointment, please reach out to us at (512) 321-2188.