We’re a registered Medicare provider, but not with Medicaid or Dentaquest.
Modern Root Canal: Comfort and Care Redefined
Modern day root canal therapy is not like it used to be. New technology has transformed this tooth-saving procedure, making it more precise, comfortable and efficient. In many cases, root canals can be performed in one painless visit.
Root canal therapy is recommended when the pulp (the innermost part) of a tooth becomes infected or damaged. The main reason for a root canal is to save the tooth by removing the infected or damaged pulp. After that is done, the tooth is sealed to prevent further infection.
At Gold Coast Dental Center, we have a proven process to make sure you feel comfortable through every part of the treatment. That process includes:
The root canal procedure involves the following steps:
- Diagnosis and Consultation: With examination and X-rays, we assess the extent of damage and confirm the need for a root canal. Then we talk about the process and schedule the procedure.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to ensure you are comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.
- Pulp Removal: The dentist works to access and remove the infected pulp. Once that is completed, the root canals are cleaned and disinfected.
- Filling and Sealing: After cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, they are filled with a biocompatible material, and the opening in the tooth is sealed.
- Restoration: In many cases, patients get a crown on the tooth to protect it and restore its strength and function.
If root canal therapy is recommended to you, rest assured that our dentists will use the latest techniques to ensure your comfort and quality of care.
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal, also known as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure designed to remove infected or damaged pulp from inside a tooth. The pulp consists of nerves and blood vessels that can become infected due to untreated cavities, trauma, or extensive dental work. By extracting the infected pulp, the procedure aims to save the tooth and prevent further infection, allowing you to retain your natural teeth and avoid more invasive treatments like extractions or implants.
When Is a Root Canal Necessary?
Root canals are typically needed when the pulp within a tooth is infected or severely damaged. Here are some common signs that you may require a root canal:
- Persistent tooth pain, which may occur spontaneously
- Pain while biting or chewing
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swollen or tender gums
- Facial swelling
- Darkening of the tooth
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to contact a dental office promptly. Early intervention can help preserve your tooth and prevent further complications.
Types of Root Canals
Standard Root Canal
This is the most common type of root canal procedure, performed on a tooth with infected or damaged pulp. It involves cleaning, shaping, and filling the root canals to eliminate infection and save the tooth.
Root Canal Retreatment
If a tooth that has previously undergone a root canal becomes reinfected or develops new issues, root canal retreatment may be necessary. This involves reopening the tooth, removing the old filling material, and addressing the new infection.
Apicoectomy
An apicoectomy is a surgical procedure used when a standard root canal fails to resolve an infection. The dentist removes the tip of the tooth’s root and any surrounding infected tissue, then seals the area with a root-end filling.
Pediatric Pulpotomy
This procedure is intended for baby teeth with infected pulp. The dentist removes the infected pulp from the pulp chamber while preserving the healthy pulp in the roots. A stainless steel crown is then placed on the tooth to maintain it until the adult tooth erupts.
What is Endodontic Surgery?
ndodontic surgery may be necessary for various reasons, including:
- Diagnosing root issues by gaining a detailed view of the root.
- Treating damaged root surfaces.
- Completing a root canal procedure that has excessive calcium deposits that cannot be managed non-surgically.
One of the most common types of endodontic surgery is an apicoectomy (or apical surgery). This procedure involves removing a portion of the root tip and sealing the root canal, hence it’s sometimes referred to as root end surgery.
Apical surgery is typically performed after a root canal procedure, and possibly after a retreatment as well. If inflammation or infection reaches the root tip in the jawbone, it can lead to further complications. If all other options are exhausted, your endodontist may recommend an apicoectomy instead of extracting the tooth.
Benefits of Endodontic Surgery
- Maintain healthy, functioning natural teeth.
- Avoid the need for tooth extractions.
- Reduce the risk of serious health complications.
- High success rate in healing persistent infections, inflammation, and other issues.
Are You a Good Candidate for Endodontic Surgery?
Not everyone qualifies for endodontic surgery. Often, traditional treatments may suffice without the need for surgical intervention. However, you may be a suitable candidate if:
- You experience pain or infection after attempts at root canal treatment and retreatment.
- Certain areas of the root canal were inaccessible to the endodontist.
- Your dentist identifies unusual findings on your X-rays.
- Root resorption is present (the root is dissolving).
- A large infection in the bone is not healing or responding to current treatment efforts.
Why Choose Gold Coast Dental Center Endodontics?
At Gold Coast Dental Center, we prioritize a patient-focused approach to your oral health. We treat you like family and address any dental fears or anxieties to ensure your comfort during surgery and throughout your recovery.
- Dr. Jerry Karedan has been Board Certified for over 9 years, with specialized training and experience in endodontic surgery and treatment.
- We provide a comfortable, welcoming environment.
- Our entire dental team emphasizes building a high level of trust with our patients.
- We are dedicated to personalized care and support you from the moment you walk through our doors.
- A comprehensive range of endodontic services is offered.
- Gold Coast Dental Center features a modern office equipped with state-of-the-art technology, ensuring a high level of excellence in this specialty. If you need endodontic surgery, we are confident that you will find our dental office in Commercial Blvd Fort Lauderdale to be your best choice.