Endodontics refers to the aspect of dentistry that treats the inside of the tooth: the nerve. When a cavity or fracture extends into the nerve chamber, a tooth can experience severe pain and infection such as an abscess. Through endodontic therapy, the tooth can be preserved and saved for several more years.
A tooth may need endodontic therapy when there is:
- An abscess
- Severe pain
- A history of trauma
- Visible exposure of the nerve
Root Canal Therapy
A root canal is when infected nerve tissue is removed; the nerve chamber is medicated and then sealed off. This prevents the tooth's continued damage and eventual loss.
Pulpotomies
Pulpotomies are the pediatric version of a root canal, with only a portion of the nerve being removed and the tooth medicated. They are an essential step in preventing damage to underlying permanent teeth. It also eliminates the tooth from being lost prematurely and interfering with eruption patterns.