General Information

Endodontists are root canal specialists - dentists who specialize in saving your teeth through endodontic therapy procedures involving the soft inner tissue of the teeth, called the pulp, and the surrounding bone.

The word "endodontic" comes from the Greek words "endo" (inside) and "odont" (tooth).  All dentists receive basic training in endodontic diagnosis and treatment. Some teeth, however, can be especially difficult  - that’s why you may have been referred to us.   Endodontists receive an additional two or more years of advanced education in this kind of treatment. They study root canal techniques and procedures in greater depth, for diagnosis and treatment of more difficult cases. They are also experts at managing your discomfort - or ay pain - that was formerly associated with root canal therapy.  For these reasons, many dentists choose to refer their patients to endodontists.

For a much more comprehensive explanation of the procedures we perform, visit the "Patient Information" section of the American Association of Endodontists website.   Just click the following link to access all the information you may need. www.aae.org/patients/treatments-and-procedures/root-canals/root-canals.aspx.

You can also watch educational videos if you by going to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AATnG9BdIMg

In summary - First, you will receive a diagnostic examination and we will discuss your particular case, the likelihood of it's success, and any other treatment options.  A sheet of latex (or non-latex) called the "rubber dam"  will be placed around the tooth to isolate it, keeping it clean and dry during treatment.  There are 3 or 4 basic steps, but the number of visits depends on your particular case.  Some cases take 2 visits but many can be achieved in a single visit.  Rarely will your treatment exceed two visits.  In any case,  it is more important to achieve the very best result possible than to meet a specific time criteria. 

Because of a number of variables, there are no guarantees.  But rest assured, endodontic therapy has a very high degree of success - in excess of 90%.  Most teeth can be predictably treated with a near 100% success rate!!  

The image on the right illustrates some of the reasons that you may need a root canal. Again, for more images, and detailed information, visit www.aae.org/patients/patientinfo/faqs/ 

It is normal to feel a mild ache in the area, or biting sensitivity on your tooth for the first day or two following your treatment.  Please avoid chewing on the tooth in order to allow the tissues around the tooth to heal.  Soreness may continue for a week or more, but usually does not linger beyond a day or so.  We recommend Advil (motrin, ibuprofen), Aleve (naprosyn) or Tylenol (acetaminophen) to help control any post-operative disomfort.

Occasionally, sensitivity to touching, tapping or biting on the tooth may linger beyond a week.  A small percentage of teeth (less than 10%) which were previously infected may flare up and require an antibiotic, and/or further treatment.  If either situation should occur, or if you have any other questions or concerns please call us.  If your call is after office hours or on the weekend, the answering service will page the doctor.

A visit to your restorative dentist should be scheduled within a month after your treatment so that a permanent restoration can be made . This is your responsibility , and is of the utmost importance - to prevent re-contamination of the root system, or fracture of your remaining tooth structure.

Once endodontic therapy is completed your tooth should be examined over the following year.  This allows us to make sure the tooth has healed or is healing properly.  In some cases, an abcess may take over a year to heal.  You will be contacted for a follow-up/recall appointment according to your specific situation.

There is never a fee for the simple follow-up examination.