Endodontic Services

Inside every tooth is a soft tissue called the pulp, which contains the nerve supply and blood vessels that nourished the tooth during its development. The pulp runs from the inner chamber of the tooth down through one or more root canals to the tip of the root.

Endodontics deals with conditions that affect this inner tissue. Once a tooth is fully developed, it can survive without the pulp, the surrounding bone and gum tissue continue to provide nourishment. This means that diseased or damaged pulp tissue can often be removed without losing the tooth itself.

Endodontic treatment is considered when the pulp inside a tooth has been compromised, whether through infection, inflammation, or physical injury. This can occur as a result of:

• Deep decay that has progressed into the pulp chamber
• A crack or fracture that extends into the pulp
• Trauma to the tooth, such as a blow that damages the nerve even without visible fracture
• Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth, which can cumulatively affect the pulp
• A tooth that has become non-vital over time (the pulp has died)

In some cases there are noticeable symptoms, pain, swelling, or sensitivity. In others, pulp involvement is identified through x-rays or a clinical examination before any symptoms develop.