Endodontists are a dentist who specializes in endodontics, a treatment for the tooth pulp and tissues surrounding the roots of teeth that have become diseased. The root canal system is the part of the tooth that extends from its crown through the roots to the apex found inside bone tissue. Diseased or injured teeth often require root canal treatment because decay, injury, or infection may have affected the tooth’s pulp. The endodontist diagnoses and treats these teeth by performing root canal therapy on them, a type of surgery that cleans out any infection from inside the tooth using special instruments called files. In this article, we look at some of the reasons you should consider visiting a Fair Oaks endodontist. Read on to learn more.

1. Tooth Sensitivity and Pain

A root canal treatment may be necessary if you have a tooth that feels very sensitive to temperatures or hurts when you chew a specific type of food. The dentist will perform the root canal to remove the infected pulp from the affected part. This reduces inflammation and stops any pain immediately. If discomfort worsens, it is vital to seek an endodontist for treatment.

2. Infections and Abscesses

If you have an infection or abscess, a root canal is the only way to treat it while preserving your tooth. The dentist will remove the diseased pulp before placing sealants over the top of your tooth to prevent further damage. If the infection is bad, a dentist will also need to prescribe antibiotic treatment. Failure to treat infections in time can lead to severe health problems.

3. Injury and Damage

If you have been in an accident, the doctor may advise having a root canal performed immediately so that you can save your tooth. Damaged or broken teeth are typical results of accidents, and they must be treated as quickly as possible with a root canal. Without this treatment, the tooth may have to be taken out and replaced with a bridge or implant.

4. Root Canal Treatment After Extraction

If you have had a tooth removed by a dentist because of an infection, you must visit an endodontist for treatment. The root canal can be performed on the extracted tooth, and it won’t cost any more than a routine root canal. However, waiting for treatment will lead to the tooth falling out and the infection spreading even further into your bone and gums.

5. Apicoectomy

An apicoectomy is a treatment used to treat the soft tissue in your mouth. You may need it if you have a diseased pulp in one of your teeth. This treatment can also remove cysts and tumors in the teeth. It may even be necessary if you are experiencing swelling in your gums or facial muscles due to an infection or abscess in the tooth. Unlike other types of surgery, this is not done under anesthesia, so you can drive yourself to and from the appointment with no problems.

In summary, an endodontist is a dentist specializing in conditions affecting the tooth pulp and tissues surrounding the roots. You may need to see one if you have tooth sensitivity and pain, infections, and abscesses. They can also help you with injuries and damage, apicoectomy, and root canal treatment after extraction.