At Forbes Endodontics and Microsurgery, Smiles are our business!

Most people during their lifetime will experience some degree of oral discomfort due to natural dental distress.  Long ago, the standard procedure was to remove teeth that were problematic.  Today, Forbes Endodontics utilizes the latest technology and improved dental knowledge that allows us to preserve teeth in their natural configuration and provide a long lasting solution for you.  Our expert use of microscopes, digital X-Rays, 3-D imaging, and advanced computerized practice management ensures recovery of even the most difficult cases.  We are dedicated to giving you excellent Endodontic treatment and care.

What is Endodontic Dentistry?

Endodontics is a specialty of Dentistry that deals with diseases of the dental pulp and its supporting structures.  Endodontists are Dentists with special post-graduate training in this field. Endodontists are also experienced at finding the cause of oral and facial pain that has been difficult to diagnose.  Although General Dentists can perform Endodontic treatment, patients are often referred to an Endodontist when the case is complicated or more difficult than usual.

In order to understand Endodontic treatment, it helps to know something about the anatomy of a tooth.  Teeth have several layers. The outside layer of the tooth is composed of a hard layer called Enamel.  Enamel is supported by an inner layer called Dentin, which has at its center a soft tissue known as the Pulp. The pulp contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue that are responsible for forming the surrounding Dentin and Enamel during tooth development. The pulp receives its nourishment supply from vessels which enter the end of the root.  Although the pulp is important during development of the tooth, it is not necessary for function of the tooth. The tooth continues to be nourished by the tissues surrounding it even after the pulp is removed.

Why would I need Endodontic treatment?

Endodontic treatment is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected. The most common reasons for inflammation or infection are deep cavities (caries), repeated dental procedures, cracks or chips. Trauma can also cause inflammation and often shows up as discoloration of the tooth. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess.

The Endodontic treatement

The Endodontist removes the inflammed or infected pulp, carefully cleans and shapes the canal system and then seals the prepared space. Most treatment is now performed in a single appointment ranging from 60-90 minutes (depending on the number of canals). Once treatment is completed, you may be instructed to return to your dentist for permanent reconstruction. The restoration of the tooth is an important part of treatment because it seals the cleaned canals from the oral environment, protects the tooth and restores it to function.

Signs and Symptoms

Indications for treatment include prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, discoloration of the tooth, swelling or tenderness of the tooth or adjacent gums. Sometimes there are no symptoms.

When is Oral Surgery necessary?

Occasionally conventional root canal therapy and a following re-treatment will not completely resolve some dental issues.  In this case a root end surgery also know as an apicoectomy is required.  This procedure removes the root tip of the tooth and prepares and fills a root end cavity with biocompatible material.  Due to the advances in microsurgery with the effective use of microscopes, this procedure maintains a high success rate.

Will I feel pain during or after the procedure?

Toothache pain is the main reason for patients seeking treatment. Fortunately, modern anesthetics can make the procedure pain free. Seeking treatment early makes the procedure more comfortable, so don't wait. When caught early, treatment should feel no different than having a regular filling. For the first few days after treatment, there may be some sensitivity to biting pressure, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. Sometimes over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications (like Advil) are recommended for a day or two. Dr. Forbes can prescribe other medications but they are rarely required.