Endodontics
Endodontic Treatment Services
At Fontana Dental Care, our skilled endodontists undergo additional specialized training beyond dental school to proficiently handle a range of procedures, from simple to complex. One of the key treatments they perform is root canal therapy.
Endodontics Care
Endodontics, a specialized branch of dentistry, focuses on the intricate structures within teeth. Derived from the Greek term “Endodontics,” meaning “inside the tooth,” it encompasses the dental pulp, tissues, nerves, and arterioles. At Fontana Dental Care, our highly trained endodontists possess additional expertise acquired through postgraduate dental training, enabling them to perform a range of both simple and complex procedures, including root canal therapy.
Traditionally, a tooth with a diseased nerve would have been extracted immediately. However, thanks to advancements in endodontics, preserving the natural tooth has become the primary goal in most cases. By removing the affected inner tooth structures and sealing the resulting space with a crown, we can restore the health and functionality of damaged teeth.
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of endodontic problems is crucial:
- Inflammation and tenderness in the gums
- Sensitivity of the teeth to hot and cold foods
- Discomfort when chewing and biting
- Tooth discoloration
- Unexplained pain in the nearby lymph nodes
If you experience any of these indicators, our skilled endodontists at Fontana Dental Care are ready to provide comprehensive care and effective treatments tailored to your needs.
Why Have Endodontic Treatment?
Endodontic treatment, commonly known as root canal therapy, is a procedure performed to preserve and save natural teeth. While there are advanced restorations available, most dental professionals agree that nothing can fully replace the health and functionality of natural teeth.
Several factors can contribute to inner tooth damage, including:
- Bacterial infections: Oral bacteria are the primary culprits behind endodontic issues. Bacteria can penetrate the tooth pulp through small cracks caused by tooth decay or injury. The resulting inflammation and infection can endanger the affected tooth and lead to the formation of an abscess.
- Fractures and chips: When a significant portion of the tooth’s surface or crown becomes detached, root canal therapy may be necessary. The removal of the crown exposes the pulp, causing severe pain and complications.
- Injuries: Trauma to the teeth can occur due to direct or indirect blows to the mouth. Some injuries can dislodge or luxate a tooth from its socket. After successfully stabilizing the injured tooth, root canal therapy is often required.
- Tooth avulsion: If a tooth is completely knocked out of its socket, immediate action is crucial. It is essential to rinse the tooth and attempt to place it back into the socket. If this is not possible, preserving the tooth in a special dental solution or milk helps keep its internal structures viable until emergency dental treatment can be obtained. The endodontist will then reposition the tooth in its socket using a splint and perform root canal therapy to save the tooth.
By undergoing root canal therapy, the inner tooth is treated, infection is eliminated, and the tooth’s natural structure is preserved. This allows for continued function and aesthetics, ensuring the long-term health and well-being of your smile.
What Does Endodontic Procedure Involve?
Root canal therapy typically requires one to three visits for completion. Before the treatment begins, comprehensive X-rays of the teeth will be taken and carefully examined.
The procedure starts by administering a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort. A dental dam, a protective sheet, will be placed to isolate the surgical area and maintain a sterile environment during the treatment. An opening will be made on the tooth’s surface, allowing access to the pulp chamber. Using specialized handheld instruments, the infected or damaged pulp will be thoroughly removed.
After cleaning and shaping the space, it will be filled with gutta-percha. This biocompatible material, similar to rubber, helps seal the root canals. A sealing cement will be applied to ensure complete closure. To restore functionality before the permanent restoration, a temporary filling may be placed. In the final visit, a permanent restoration or crown will be placed to protect and strengthen the treated tooth.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding endodontic procedures, our office is here to assist you. Feel free to reach out to us for further information or to schedule an appointment.
Other Endodontic Treatments
- Cracked tooth
- Root canal retreatment
- Root canal therapy
🤩 Patient Satisfaction
The Honest Review From Our Patients
Check out what our patients have to say about their experiences with Fontana Dental Care.
Khadijah B
Dr Kim and the Staffs were all very friendly and answered my questions patiently:
VSP W
Phenomenal!!!!!!!! I can’t wait for my next visit!!!!!! A very clean environment!!!!! Very Professional!!!!! From walking in the door you feel comfortable!!!!! More importantly!!! You’re not waiting forever to be seen!!! Thanks everyone!!!! XOXO
Teresa G
Great experience today filling one tooth! I cannot tell the difference
Parisa N
Visit Us
Become Our NextHappy Patient
Schedule your appointment today and experience the exceptional care our team at Fontana Dental Care has to offer!
Glad to have found this gem. Very professional, patient care is sensitive to patient. Dr. Has a great hand for those with previous needle experience that have left them with some anxiety. What can I say I recommend this place with a ten star if I could. The whole office is in sync & on point with things. Dr. has a great team behind him that keeps things running smoothly. You want to come here before going anywhere else, you won’t regret it.