Endodontic FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is endodontics?

Endodontics is a branch of dentistry recognized by the American Dental Association involving treatment of the pulp (root canal) and surrounding tissues of the tooth. When you look at your tooth in the mirror, what you see is the crown. The rest of the tooth, the portion hidden beneath the gum line, is called the root. Inside the root is a channel or "root canal" that contains a pulp of soft tissue, blood vessels, and nerves. Bacteria that are introduced into the pulp as a result of tooth decay, periodontal disease, tooth fracture or other problems, can severely damage the pulp. When that happens, an endodontic specialist removes the diseased pulp to save the tooth and prevent further infection and inflammation. After successful endodontic treatment, the tooth continues to perform normally.

Will I feel pain during or after the procedures?

Endodontic procedures are often performed to relieve patients of pain experienced from an inflamed or infected tooth. With the advancement of local anesthetics, we will make every effort to keep you comfortable during the procedure. For the first few days after treatment, there may be some discomfort including biting pressure and tender gums, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. Following treatment it is advisable to continue to take over-the-counter pain medication for a few days as needed. Our doctors will determine if an antibiotic or other pain medications are indicated after the treatment.

I'm an anxious patient, is there anything that can help?

We know that many patients have a high level of dental fear and anxiety when it comes to dental treatment, especially root canal therapy. Our goal is to eliminate discomfort and anxiety in our office. Some of our doctors will use nitrous oxide to help patients' anxiety. If you feel that you will need this, please be sure to inform our front desk when making the appointment so you can be scheduled with a doctor who uses it.

What about infection control?

There is no need for concern. We adhere to the most rigorous standard of infection control advocated by OSHA, the Centers for Disease Control and the American Dental Association. We utilize ultrasonic cleaning prior to autoclave sterilization and barrier techniques to eliminate the risk of contamination and infection.

I'm worried about x-rays. Should I be?

No. While x-rays will be necessary during your endodontic treatment, we make every effort to reduce radiation levels.

What happens after treatment?

When your root canal therapy has been completed, a record of your treatment will be sent to your referring dentist. You should contact his or her office for a follow-up restoration within a few weeks of completion of our treatment. Your restorative dentist will decide on what type of restoration is necessary to protect your tooth. It is rare for endodontic patients to experience complications after routine endodontic treatment or microsurgery. If a problem does occur, we are available.

How much will the procedure cost?

The cost of endodontic treatment varies on how complex the problem is and which tooth is involved. Generally, endodontic treatment and restoration of the natural tooth is less expensive than the alternative of having the tooth extracted and replaced.

What new technologies are being used?

Microscopes:

At Madison Endodontic Associates we utilize microscopes. Magnification and fiber optic illumination are helpful in aiding the doctor to see tiny details inside your tooth.

Electronic Apex Locators:

Apex locators are electronic instruments that aid in determining the length of the canals in the tooth we are treating. This information helps to minimize the number of x-rays during treatment.

Ultrasonic Equipment:

The controlled vibrating action of ultrasonic instruments enable the endodontist to selectively remove tooth structure, posts, and other obstructions inside the root canal system.

Digital Radiography:

Digital radiography is a non-film computerized system that reduces radiation levels. The dental images can be optimized, archived, printed and emailed to to other dental practitioners.

How successful is endodontic treatment?

Depending upon the complexity of the case, success is typically over 90%. If your tooth is not amenable to endodontic treatment or the chance of success is not favorable, you will be informed at the time of the consultation or when a complication becomes evident during or after treatment.