Endodontics

Endodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that deals with the complex structures found inside the teeth. The Greek word “Endodontics” literally means “inside the tooth” and relates to the tooth pulp, tissues, nerves, and arterioles.  Endodontists receive additional dental training after completing dental school to enable them to perform both complex and simple procedures, including root canal therapy.

Historically, a tooth with a diseased nerve would be removed immediately, but endodontists are now able to save the natural tooth in most cases. Generally, extracting the inner tooth structures, then sealing the resulting gap with a crown restores health and functionality to damaged teeth.

Signs and symptoms of endodontic problems:

  • Inflammation and tenderness in the gums.
  • Teeth that are sensitive to hot and cold foods.
  • Tenderness when chewing and biting.
  • Tooth discoloration.
  • Unexplained pain in the nearby lymph nodes.

Reasons for endodontic treatment

Endodontic treatment (or root canal therapy) is performed to save the natural tooth. In spite of the many advanced restorations available, most dentists agree that there is no substitute for healthy, natural teeth.

Here are some of the main causes of inner tooth damage:

Bacterial infections – Oral bacteria is the most common cause of endodontic problems. Bacteria invade the tooth pulp through tiny fissures in the teeth caused by tooth decay or injury. The resulting inflammation and bacterial infection jeopardize the affected tooth and may cause an abscess to form.

Fractures and chips – When a large part of the surface or crown of the tooth has become completely detached, root canal therapy may be required. The removal of the crown portion leaves the pulp exposed, which can be debilitating painful and problematic.

Injuries – Injuries to the teeth can be caused by a direct or indirect blow to the mouth area.  Some injuries cause a tooth to become luxated or dislodged from its socket. Root canal therapy is often needed after the endodontist has successfully stabilized the injured tooth.

Removals – If a tooth has been knocked clean out of the socket, it is important to rinse it and place it back into the socket as quickly as possible. If this is impossible, place the tooth in special dental solution (available at pharmacies) or in milk. These steps will keep the inner mechanisms of the tooth moist and alive while emergency dental treatment is sought. The tooth will be affixed in its socket using a special splint, and the endodontist will then perform root canal therapy to save the tooth.

What does an endodontic procedure invlove?

Root canal therapy usually takes between one and three visits to complete. Complete X-rays of the teeth will be taken and examined before the treatment begins.

Initially, a local anesthetic will be administered, and a dental dam (protective sheet) will be placed to ensure that the surgical area remains free of saliva during the treatment. An opening will be created in the surface of the tooth, and the pulp will be completely removed using small handheld instruments.

The space will then be shaped, cleaned, and filled with gutta-percha.  Gutta-percha is a biocompatible material that is somewhat similar to rubber. Cement will be applied on top to ensure that the root canals are completely sealed off. Usually, a temporary filling will be placed to restore functionality to the tooth prior to the permanent restoration procedure. During the final visit, a permanent restoration or crown will be placed.

If you have questions or concerns about endodontic procedures, please contact our office.

Testimonials.

Read what people are saying about us.

read more

Testimonials

Professional and clean practice with caring doctors and friendly team at Kahala Smile Professionals. They take time to review treatment plans and options until your happy with any decision. They look out for the interest of the patient!

I'm so grateful for Dr. Candace and Robert Wada. I switched to their services after sustaining injury to my face in 2018. After 8hrs in the emergency room, I was sent on my way with a few missing teeth. My dentist was out of town, and a friend referred me to Dr. Wada. My accident and injury was traumatizing enough. Having my teeth repaired the same day by such kind people made a major difference in my recovery.

I love Kahala Smile Professionals!!

Rhonda J

Caring, knowledgeable, using cutting edge technology and professional dentists. Over the past several years, everyone in this office from the receptionists, to the dental hygienists and dentists, care about my over all well being and oral health. From the moment you walk in they've continued to make me feel like family, because they care about my over all health, by remembering me and my needs. Recommending healthy food, flossing and brushing at least twice a day has helped me to not have a cavity for several years. Also Dr. Robert recently made me a mouth piece that I can't sleep with out. He made an excellent fit. The office is very clean, efficient and everyone takes precautions to help me feel safe. With my extremely busy lifestyle, I appreciate the reminders before appointments. I give my highest recommendation of these Dentists.

Jasmine M.

I recently moved here from the mainland and was looking for a Dentist. Upon some research online, I decided on Dr. Candace Wada. My first visit was such a amazing experience, that I actually held off write a review because, I had a second visit soon after and I wanted to see if the service and experience was consistent. Now that I have visited Dr. Wada twice, I can genuine say that this is the best Dental practice that I have ever been to yet. Not only is the staff here extremely pleasant to deal with but they are very helpful with booking the appointments all the way through with follow-ups. Dr. Wada was very knowledgeable, experience and dedicated to her patient. She educate her patient and explains the procedures to them in simple terms, so that her patients fully understands. I never felt pressured during my whole experience and was very appreciative of Dr. Wada recommendations. I am truly happy that I found Dr. Wada and all the professional staff at Kahala Smile Professionals. Keep up the great work!

J. L.

View More

Contact Us. We encourage you to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. Please call our office or use the quick contact form below.

powered by Birdeye
powered by Birdeye