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What is an endodontist? Endodontists are dentists who specialize in root canal treatment. After dental school, endodontists receive two additional years of advanced training and education in both root canal treatment and endodontic surgery. Since they are specialists, they are better able to diagnose and treat more difficult cases. What is root canal treatment? Root canal treatment, or endodontic treatment, is performed to help save a tooth. The procedure involves removing the nerves (dental pulp) from inside the tooth and its roots, and replacing them with a rubber-like material called gutta percha. During a tooth's lifespan, the dental pulp may become inflamed or infected for a variety of reasons (decay, deep fillings, cracks, trauma). The injured dental pulp may cause pain and swelling of the surrounding gums or face. In such situations, the dental pulp has to be removed, either by performing root canal treatment or by having the entire tooth extracted. How do I know if I need root canal treatment? Signs and symptoms include sensitivity to hot or cold that lasts more than a few seconds, spontaneous pain, tenderness to biting or pressure, tooth discoloration and swelling of the gums or face. Sometimes, however, there are no symptoms and your regular dentist or endodontist will tell you that you need root canal treatment after taking an x-ray and examining your tooth. Is root canal treatment painful? Although there is much negative perception by the media and many reported "horror stories", the vast majority of root canal treatments actually reduce pain. With new local anaesthetic techniques and modern equipment, root canal treatment has become a virtually painless procedure. The tooth may be sensitive to biting and pressure for several days after treatment, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. However, any discomfort can be controlled with over-the-counter pain medication. What happens to my tooth after root canal treatment? Once root canal treatment is completed, you need to make an appointment with your regular dentist for a permanent filling or a crown (cap). The new filling should be placed as soon as possible to help prevent tooth fracture and possible tooth loss. How long does a root canal treatment last? Although the procedure cannot be guaranteed, up to 95% of root canal treatments are successful. With proper fillings, regular visits to the dentist, and good oral hygiene and home care, a root canal treated tooth can last for many years, even a lifetime. What is endodontic surgery? In cases where pain or infection remains after root canal treatment has been done, endodontic surgery may be recommended. Endodontic surgery is done in-office and involves a minor surgical procedure to remove any persistent tooth infection. A small incision is made in the gums near the tooth. The infected tissue and the tip of the root are removed (apicoectomy), and the root canals are sealed with a special filling material. The gums are then closed with stitches and healing usually occurs without any complications. With the help of local anaesthetics and pain medication, endodontic surgery is associated with little or no discomfort and patients can resume regular activity the next day.

Dr. Paul Lieberman DDS, Cert. Endo Dr. Raphael Garofalo DDS, B.Sc., Cert. Endo, FRCD Dr. Michael Auerbach BSc. DDS, MScD CAGS Dr. Matthew Kerner DMD, B.SC., Cert. Endo, FRCD 1 Holiday Ave. Suite 805 Point Claire Québec H9R 5N3 Map | Get Directions

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