Your dentist may refer you to an endodontist when you need specialized care involving the inside of the tooth or the tissues surrounding the roots. Endodontists are dental specialists with advanced training in diagnosing and treating dental pain and preserving natural teeth.
At Precision Specialty Care, our endodontists work closely with your general dentist to provide specialized treatment while keeping your overall dental care coordinated. Following your appointment, we provide your dentist with a report detailing your diagnosis and treatment so they can determine the appropriate next steps for your continued care.
Endodontic Treatments
Root Canal Treatment
A root canal can help save a tooth when the pulp inside the tooth becomes inflamed or infected. During treatment, the tooth is carefully isolated to keep it clean and dry. A small opening is made in the crown to access the inside of the tooth, and the infected or damaged tissue is removed. The canals are then cleaned, shaped, and filled with a biocompatible material before the tooth is sealed with a temporary filling.
After treatment, you will return to your general dentist, who will determine the appropriate permanent restoration for the tooth.
Endodontic Retreatment
In some cases, a tooth that has previously undergone root canal treatment may develop new problems. Endodontic retreatment allows the specialist to reopen the tooth, carefully examine the existing treatment, and clean and disinfect the root canals again before resealing them.
Endodontic Microsurgery
When inflammation or infection persists around the root of a tooth after root canal treatment, endodontic microsurgery may be recommended. Using specialized instruments and magnification, the endodontist can access the area around the root, remove the affected tissue, and seal the end of the root to help preserve the tooth.
Dental Emergencies
Dental injuries and sudden tooth pain can require prompt evaluation by an endodontist. We treat a variety of dental emergencies, including traumatic dental injuries, cracked or damaged teeth, and injuries that affect the dental pulp. An examination allows our team to determine the source of the problem and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Advanced 3D Imaging
Accurate diagnosis is an important part of endodontic care. In certain cases, our specialists use cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), also known as 3D imaging, to obtain a detailed view of the teeth, roots, surrounding bone, and other anatomical structures.
Unlike traditional two-dimensional X-rays, CBCT creates a three-dimensional image that can help our specialists identify complex anatomy, locate areas of infection, evaluate previous treatment, and plan certain procedures with greater detail.
What to Expect From Your Referral
Your general dentist may refer you to Precision Specialty Care when specialized endodontic evaluation or treatment is needed. During your first visit, one of our endodontists will review your dental and medical history, discuss your symptoms, perform a thorough examination, and take appropriate imaging.
In many cases, a diagnosis and treatment plan can be established during the first appointment. Depending on your individual circumstances, additional evaluation may be necessary before treatment is recommended.
Once your specialized treatment is complete, we will communicate the results and provide your general dentist with the information needed to continue your care. This collaborative approach allows you and your dental team to stay informed throughout the process while working toward the preservation of your natural teeth.