After completing graduation, a dentist has two options: to set up a practice or complete further education. If dentists opt for the first one, they are referred to as general dentists. However, if one opts for higher studies, a world of unique specializations opens up for them. Similarly, an endodontist is such a specialist who trains to recognize dental root problems and provide effective solutions.
What Is A Tooth’s Root And Why Is It Important?
A tooth is divided into three structures. The first two visible parts of the tooth that stick out of your gum are the head and neck. However, your gums encapsulate and protect the third part, known as the root.
The root of a tooth contains the all-important pulp. Pulp, in turn, comprises blood vessels and nerve endings. Hence, pulp keeps your tooth healthy and alive, so without one, your tooth is dead. As the pulp contains most nerve endings, a person experiences toothache or sensitivity when the root is exposed.
Education of An Endodontist:
After completing dental school, an endodontist undertakes further two or more years of education. During their higher education, endodontists train to recognize root diseases, symptoms and perform surgical procedures. As mentioned earlier, toothache and sensitivity originate from the pulp, so varying types of toothache give an endodontist an insight into what’s happening in the tooth’s root.
The Role Of An Endodontist:
An endodontist tries to safeguard your pulp and root by any means possible. Hence, their action ranges from prescribing antibiotics for root infection to completely extracting the pulp. Consequently, let’s discuss a few surgical operations an endodontist is licensed to perform.
Root Canal Treatment: This is the most common operation an endodontist performs with an average of 25 root canals per week. When bacteria, usually through cavities, infect the root, an endodontist performs a root canal. This treatment often results in the extraction of the infected pulp area and disinfection of the pulp canal.
Apicoectomy: An endodontist performs this procedure when the previous root canal treatment fails, leaving a residual infection at the very end of the root. Thus, an endodontist approaches the infection site by drilling through the base of the gums. Once at the site, they remove the tissue and seal the remaining root canal.
At The Office Of An Endodontist:
We know that an endodontist has a task to rescue your tooth’s root, and their office tools help them achieve it. Hence, you will find digital radiography and 3-D image technology at their offices. These allow them to precisely model the structures of your tooth’s root for well-directed therapy. Apart from using cutting-edge imaging technology, endodontists master the art of anesthesia because toothache is a force to reckon with. However, endodontists are up for the challenge.
When To Visit One:
Toothache and high sensitivity indicate that you might need to visit an endodontist. However, it’s better to visit a general dentist first, and they will refer you to one if you require special services. Hence, if your tooth bugs, you give Brookshire Smile Dental a visit at once or give us a call at 281-934-1010.