Endodontist

An endodontist is a dentist that specializes in working with the pulp (nerve) and root of teeth. They are most concerned with relieving dental pain and preserving the teeth you still have. You will typically be recommended one if your dentist feels you may need a root canal.

Do I Need Endodontic Treatment?

Persistent dental pain is the most common reason patients will see an endodontist. You should also consider a visit if you experience the following symptoms:

  • Sensitivity to hot and cold
  • Tender or swollen gums near a painful tooth
  • Darkening of a tooth
  • Pain while eating or putting pressure on the affected area

Root Canal Therapy

Root Canal ProcedureRoot canals are among the most dreaded dental procedures, but they are also some of the most routine and common treatments you could get. Many follow these simple steps:

  1. X-rays are taken to determine the full damage to the tooth.
  2. Local anesthetic is administered to numb the area and prevent any discomfort.
  3. The endodontist will make an opening in the crown of the tooth.
  4. The decayed pulp is cleaned out.
  5. Depending on the patient, the tooth will either be sealed or it may be left open to drain for a few days.

More Endodontic Therapies

  • Endodontic Retreatment: Nonsurgical root canals are typically over 90% successful. However, there are still times when the tooth stubbornly doesn’t heal or pain persists long after the procedure. If this happens, your endodontist will have to reopen your tooth, access the filling and assess what else needs to be done.
  • Pulp Vitality Testing: This test helps your endodontist to diagnose your pulp’s overall health and can give them more information to decide if a root canal is necessary.
  • Apicoectomy: Used as a last resort, this procedure—also called a root end resection—removes both the pulp and the tip of the root in order to preserve the tooth. It is performed in cases when a root canal treatment is not recommended.

Schedule an Appointment with an Endodontist

Colorado Endodontic Group logoKip Dental works closely with the specialists at Colorado Endodontic Group to provide an array of services to our patients under one roof. Partnering together, our dentists and endodontists are able to offer a complete plan of treatment that’s right for you. Sedation options are available if needed.

Call us at 720-608-5557 or fill out our appointment request form to schedule your appointment today! In cases of extreme pain, we urge you to take advantage of our emergency dental services.