Endodontists are dentists with over 2 additional years of advanced specialty education in diagnosis and root canal treatment.

 Their specialized training enables them to diagnose and treat difficult cases such as teeth with narrow or blocked canals, unusual anatomy,  or teeth which have previously had root canal treatment.  Because they limit their practices to endodontics they treat these types of cases every day.

Endodontics is the science of treating problems with the tissue inside the tooth (dental pulp).  When this tissue or the tissue surrounding the tooth root is diseased or damaged due to decay or trauma, endodontic treatment is typically needed to save the tooth.

Although General Dentists can perform Endodontic treatment, patients are often referred to an Endodontist when the case is complicated or more difficult than usual.

In order to understand Endodontic treatment, it helps to know something about the anatomy of a tooth. Teeth have several layers. The outside layer of the tooth is composed of a hard layer called Enamel. Enamel is supported by an inner layer called Dentin, which has at its center a soft tissue known as the Pulp.

The pulp contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue that are responsible for forming the surrounding Dentin and Enamel during tooth development. The pulp receives its nourishment supply from vessels which enter the end of the root. Although the pulp is important during development of the tooth, it is not necessary for function of the tooth. The tooth continues to be nourished by the tissues surrounding it even after the pulp is removed.

Endodontic treatment is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected. The most common reasons for inflammation or infection are deep cavities (caries), repeated dental procedures, cracks or chips. Trauma can also cause inflammation and often shows up as discoloration of the tooth. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess.

Indications for treatment include prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, discoloration of the tooth, swelling or tenderness of the tooth or adjacent gums. Sometimes, remarkably, there are no symptoms.

The Endodontist removes the inflammed or infected pulp, carefully cleans and shapes the canal system and then seals the prepared space. Most  of our treatments are performed in two visits. Once treatment is completed, you will be instructed to return to your dentist for a crown or other restorative work. The restoration of the tooth is an important part of treatment because it seals the cleaned canals from the oral environment, protects the tooth and restores it to function.  After restoration, the tooth continues to function like any other tooth.

Toothache pain is the main reason for patients seeking treatment. Fortunately, modern anesthetics can make the procedure pain free in most cases. Seeking treatment early makes the procedure more comfortable, so don't wait. When caught early, treatment should feel no different than having a regular filling. For the first few days after treatment, there may be some sensitivity to biting pressure, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure.  Dr. Jarboe and Dr. Ghahraman recommend taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications (like Advil) for a day or two after the procedure. Prescription pain medications, while available, are not usually needed.