Once a tooth is infected, the best person to see for expert care is an endodontist. An endodontic specialist will offer you a comprehensive diagnosis of your condition and determine the most suitable treatment plan. Rick Schwartz, DDS, Rick Davis, DDS, and the expert team at Endodontic Consultants of San Antonio will offer you and your family the necessary help to continue maintaining functional and healthy smiles. For those seeking top-quality endodontic care, call the office of Endodontic Consultants of San Antonio or use the online scheduling tool to talk to the San Antonio endodontics specialists today.
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What is endodontics?
Endodontics is the dental specialty that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and care of traumatized, infected, or painful teeth. The tooth interior contains a dental pulp comprising nerves and blood vessels that allow one’s teeth to feel cold and hot sensations. Dentin is a hard substance surrounding the pulp covered by the tooth enamel (visible part).
Decay in the tooth may penetrate the dentin, enamel, and reach the pulp, causing infection and pain. Additionally, trauma can crack or break the tooth, thus exposing the pulp and causing pain or possible tooth loss. Endodontic care, also known as a root canal treatment, removes the decay and other infected parts in your tooth. Afterward, your tooth is sealed against future infection or decay.
What is the significance of endodontic care?
Some of the common signs of an endodontic issue include:
- Swelling of the soft tissue in the chin, cheek, or near the affected tooth
- Pain while chewing or applying pressure on the tooth
- Sensitivity while taking in hot or cold beverages or foods
- Discoloration that fails to respond to conventional teeth whitening
Some patients might have a ‘silent’ infected tooth; it shows no symptoms, but the infection is seen using an X-ray. Endodontic care can avoid tooth loss and maintain your smile.
What To Expect During A Root Canal Treatment
Once the condition is accurately diagnosed and the provider establishes that root canal treatment is the most suitable treatment option, your tooth is anesthetized to render it entirely numb. The inflamed or infected pulpal tissue is extracted from your tooth’s inside. The pulp is extensively disinfected and later sealed using a biocompatible material.
Innovations have made the root canal treatment procedure more effective, painless, and quick. Besides, the specialists at Endodontic Consultants of San Antonio are skilled in applying anesthesia to ensure comfort during procedures.
For patients who experienced difficulty numbing the treatment area, general dentists can refer them to Dr. Schwartz and Dr. Davis to administer local anesthesia. For some patients, a crown is recommended following treatment to support and protect the treated tooth.
What is the after-care following root canal treatment?
Following the procedure, the numbness will wear off, which causes some patients to experience slight tenderness for several days. Patients are advised to avoid chewing with that tooth during this time. Others opt for over-the-counter anti-inflammation drugs to relieve the soreness. Nevertheless, one should continue brushing or flossing, but be careful with the treated tooth.
In conclusion, Dr. Schwartz and Dr. Davis have more than two decades of experience in oral care. Patients are guaranteed exceptional endodontic care at their hands and receive education on proper hygiene practices to continue enjoying a healthy smile. To schedule an appointment, call Endodontic Consultants of San Antonio today or use the online booking tool.