Endodontics

How Long Does It Take To Recover From An Apicoectomy?

An apicoectomy is an endodontic surgery that is done to save a tooth that has a persistent infection. Endodontics is the field of dentistry that is focused on the dental pulp, the soft tissue contained mostly within the roots of a tooth. An infection of the dental pulp can result in the loss of the tooth unless it is treated. Because an apicoectomy is a surgical procedure, you can expect that a brief recovery period will be necessary. How long does it take to recover from an apicoectomy? Here’s what you can expect. What is an Apicoectomy? An apicoectomy is a procedure that involves the removal of the apex, the end tip, of a tooth root. When an infected tooth is treated with a root canal, but the infection persists, an apicoectomy is a potential next step. The procedure involves making an incision into the gum tissue and accessing the root of the tooth. The tip of the root is removed and the accessible root canal area is thoroughly cleaned out. This area of the canal is filled with a biocompatible material that fortifies the tooth and helps prevent reinfection. Any surrounding infected gum tissue or bone tissue is also removed. The gum tissue is then placed back over the area and sutured. What is the Average Recovery Time Frame? Recovery from a surgical procedure can be looked at in two ways: the length of time it takes to return to your daily activities, and the time it takes to …

How Long Does A Root Canal Take?

If you’ve been told you need a root canal, you probably have questions about the treatment. What is a root canal? How long does a root canal take? Are there other options? Can the endodontist save the tooth? Endodontists are dentists who specialize in saving teeth by treating the inside of a tooth. They perform root canal procedures to treat damaged or infected pulp, treat cracked or broken teeth, and perform procedures after accidents that injure teeth. What is a root canal? The term “root canal” comes from cleaning the canals inside a tooth’s root. Root canals and associated procedures remove the inflamed or infected pulp. Root canal treatment, or endodontic treatment, can save a tooth that may otherwise have to be extracted. Root canal treatment is needed when the inner, soft layer of the tooth, known as the pulp, becomes infected through decay or injury. The symptoms of a diseased pulp include: Severe toothache pain upon chewing or application of pressure Discoloration/darkening of the tooth Swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums A persistent or recurring bump on the gums Prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold temperatures (even after the hot or cold source has been removed) The pulp consists of nerves and blood vessels that help the tooth grow during development. Once fully mature, the tooth can survive without the pulp because it continues to be nourished by the tissues surrounding it. A root canal procedure involves removing the diseased pulp and then cleaning and sealing the inside …

How Do You Know if You Need a Root Canal?

Years ago, just the words “root canal” were enough to strike fear in patients. However, today the procedure is nearly pain-free. Thanks to advances in technology and modern root canal techniques, the procedure can be completed in less than an hour, allowing you to return to normal activities the same day. If your dentist has told you that you need a root canal, here’s an overview of what to expect. What is a root canal? A root canal is also known as endodontic treatment. Root canals are performed to prevent the extraction of teeth that are severely decayed, damaged, or infected. During a root canal, once the entire area surrounding the tooth is numbed, your endodontist will access the pulp (interior) of your tooth. The pulp of each tooth hosts nerves, connective tissues, and blood vessels. Your endodontist will remove this pulp, and clean out any infection in the canals of the tooth. The canals are then sealed with a safe, biocompatible material. After your root canal is completed, you’ll ultimately return to your general dentist to receive a crown, permanent filling, or have your current crown restored. It is important to note that once you have fully-developed adult teeth, you technically no longer need the pulp of your tooth. Root canals allow for the removal of the infected pulp so you can keep your tooth. Signs You May Need a Root Canal The only way to know for certain that you need a root canal is by seeing a …

How Painful Is a Root Canal?

Patients frequently express anxiety before they are scheduled for a root canal procedure, but the majority find that root canal therapy is much more comfortable than they anticipated. Because root canals are frequently performed to alleviate dental pain, our patients usually leave our office feeling better than when they arrived. If you’re not sure what to expect from a root canal treatment, read on to learn more. How Much Pain to Expect During a Root Canal Root canal therapy is used to treat inflamed or infected pulp tissue, which may cause severe dental pain, swelling, difficulty eating, and a range of other symptoms. Endodontic treatment is used to relieve this discomfort. With the use of local anesthesia and modern endodontic equipment and techniques, many patients find that having a root canal treatment is no more painful than having a cavity filled. It’s common to feel pressure and movement during a root canal, but the majority of patients are comfortable throughout their appointment. Endodontic treatment begins by numbing your tooth and its surrounding tissues using a local anesthetic. The tooth is then opened so that we may access the pulp and remove it. To prevent infection and seal the tooth, the chamber and roots are cleaned, shaped, and disinfected before being filled with a specialized rubber-like material. You’ll go to your general dentist within two weeks of your root canal treatment to have a dental crown or filling placed to restore the tooth structure. Patients frequently report feeling immediate relief after …

How to Find the Best Endodontist Near You

Choosing to see an endodontist for a root canal treatment is an excellent decision for your dental health. Endodontists are the only dental specialty that focuses on treating dental pain, root canal therapy, traumatic injury, and other conditions that affect the inside of the tooth, so you can be assured exceptional care. Here’s how to find the best endodontist near you. Board Certification Endodontists must meet the highest standards and pass rigorous examinations demonstrating their expertise in their field. Some endodontists take an additional examination in order to become board-certified by the American Board of Endodontics. Dr. Matthew Lindemann is a board-certified endodontist, an honor that signifies that he has reached the highest level of education in this speciality. Only the most distinguished endodontists in the United States receive the honor of being named a Diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics. Professional Memberships As with any other profession, memberships in professional organizations allow endodontists to stay current with state-of-the-art technologies, new research, and cutting-edge techniques in their field. These memberships demonstrate that an endodontist is committed to furthering their knowledge by pursuing opportunities for continuing education. Dr. Matthew Lindemann is proud to be an active member of the Michigan Dental Association, the Michigan Association of Endodontists, and the American Association of Endodontists. He is also a member of the distinguished American College of Dentists, International College of Dentists, and the Pierre Fauchard Academy. He is the past president of the Michigan Association of Endodontists and is currently an active …