Endodontic Procedures
Root canal therapy is a common dental procedure performed over 14 million times annually. It can save your natural teeth and prevent the need for dental implants or bridges.
Symptoms
- Tooth pain
- Sensitivity to temperature
- Swelling or injury of the tooth and gums
Procedure
The injured pulp is removed, and the root canal system is cleaned, enlarged, and sealed. This may be completed in one or two visits.
Success Rate
Root canal treatment has a success rate of about 90%.
Post-Treatment
A follow-up restoration is necessary to protect your tooth. Good dental hygiene is essential to prevent further decay.
Cost
The cost varies based on the severity and location of the damage. Endodontic treatment is generally less expensive than tooth removal and replacemen
Endodontics is crucial for maintaining oral health by eliminating infection, relieving pain, and preserving natural teeth.
Addressing Myths
Myth #1: Root canal treatment is painful.
Truth: Modern techniques and anesthetics make it as comfortable as a filling.
Myth #2: Root canal treatment causes illness.
Truth: No scientific evidence links root canal-treated teeth to systemic disease.
Myth #3: Extraction is a good alternative to root canal treatment.
Truth: Saving your natural teeth is the best option. Endodontic treatment is cost-effective and highly successful.
Teeth that have undergone endodontic treatment may sometimes fail to heal or continue to cause pain. Endodontic retreatment can effectively address these issues and restore dental health.
Causes for Retreatment
- Untreated Curved or Narrow Canals: Some canals may be too curved or narrow to treat effectively during the initial procedure.
- Complicated Canals Missed During Initial Treatment: Hidden or complicated canals may not have been detected and treated initially.
- Delayed or Improper Crown Placement: If the crown or restoration is not placed promptly or correctly, it can lead to leakage and reinfection.
Retreatment Procedure
Dr. Fein will reopen the tooth, clean the canals thoroughly, and refill and seal them to promote proper healing and alleviate pain.
When a root canal isn’t enough to heal a tooth, endodontic surgery can help by locating fractures or hidden canals and treating damaged root surfaces or surrounding bone.
What is an Apicoectomy?
An apicoectomy involves:
- Making an incision in the gum to expose the bone and inflamed tissue.
- Removing the damaged tissue and root tip.
- Placing a root-end filling and suturing the gum.
The bone naturally heals around the root over several months.
Post-Procedure Care
Some discomfort or swelling is normal. Pain medication will be provided. If pain persists, please call our office.
Cracked teeth can cause pain when chewing, temperature sensitivities, and intermittent discomfort, making diagnosis challenging. Dr. Fein can examine your cracked teeth and determine the best treatment to relieve pain.
Types of Cracks
- Craze Lines: Tiny, superficial cracks in the enamel, usually not a concern.
- Fractured Cusp: A broken cusp that rarely damages the pulp; typically requires a crown.
- Treatable Cracked Tooth: Cracks extending towards the root; often needs a root canal. Early detection is crucial.
- Split Tooth: Untreated cracks resulting in distinct segments; part of the tooth may be saved with retreatment.
- Vertical Root Fracture: Cracks starting at the root; may require surgery or extraction.
Don’t suffer from tooth pain any longer. Contact us for an evaluation and treatment plan.
Types of Injuries Dr. Fein Treats
- Chipped or Fractured Teeth: Repaired by reattaching the piece or using a filling. Significant breaks may need a crown. If the pulp is exposed, a root canal may be necessary.
- Dislodged (Luxated) Teeth: Repositioned and stabilized. Root canal treatment is often required for permanent teeth a few days after injury. Children’s teeth may be monitored for healing.
- Knocked-Out (Avulsed) Teeth: Handle gently, rinse if dirty, and place back in the socket if possible. If not, keep moist in a solution, milk, or between your gum and cheek. Avoid tap water. Seek immediate dental care.
- Root Fractures: Success depends on location; closer to the root tip is better. Stabilization with a splint may be needed.
Injuries in Children
- Apexogenesis: Medication encourages root development.
- Apexification: Removes unhealthy pulp and forms a barrier for filling; restoration is crucial.
Dr. Joshua Fein and his team specialize in endodontic treatments, including root canals. Contact us with any questions or to schedule a consultation.
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Call Us
703-539-0400 -
Email Us
info@vaendo.com -
Address
3025 Hamaker Court, Suite 320 Fairfax, VA 22031