Endodontic Therapy From a General Dentist for a Cracked Tooth

A well-trained general dentist can perform endodontic therapy. You will need endodontic therapy or a root canal treatment if you have a severe dental crack. This procedure can help regain the function and intact appearance of your tooth. If you want to know how your general dentist will give endodontic therapy to your cracked tooth, here are the details.

The definition

Dental pulp occupies the hollow space inside a tooth. Trauma, decay, and cracks tend to irritate, infect, or inflame the pulp. This type of damage needs endodontic treatment. Prolonged sensitivity, pain, discoloration, or a pimple on the gums can happen if the tooth does not receive treatment. Endodontic therapy removes the damaged pulp, cleans the inside of the tooth, and fills it with gutta-percha. This stabilizes the tooth along with a dental crown, which keeps the tooth together.

The process

Endodontic therapy can finish in one or two dental appointments. The general dentist will examine the tooth with a visual exam and digital X-rays. Then, the dentist will make a diagnosis and present a treatment plan for the cracked tooth. Endodontic therapy begins by injecting a local anesthetic into the affected area. The general dentist will isolate the tooth with a rubber dam. This protects the throat from debris and fluids.

The dentist will remove the damaged pulp. Cleaning and shaping the inner space of the tooth will follow. The dentist will fill the tooth with gutta-percha and seal it. A dental crown over the treated tooth will protect the tooth from future damage. It will also restore the tooth’s appearance.

When endodontic therapy is not enough

A root-end surgery or apicoectomy must take place if the tooth does not respond to endodontic therapy. The dentist will inject a local anesthetic into the affected area. Then, the dentist will cut an opening into the gum next to the tooth. Removing the infected tissue around the root will follow.

The general dentist will also remove the tooth root. A tiny dental filling will seal off the root canal. Suturing the gum tissue will follow. The patient must apply an ice pack to the cheek on the side of the affected tooth. This will help reduce inflammation and pain. Most patients return to normal activities the following day.

Additional treatment

The general dentist will recommend either a permanent filling or a dental crown to restore the appearance and function of the tooth. A post and core treatment may also apply if the tooth has extensive tooth structure loss. This core will support the restoration. The patient must not bite or chew on the tooth until this restoration finishes and stabilizes. Regular dental checks and good oral hygiene will make the restoration last for decades.

You can get an endodontic therapy from your general dentist

A deep crack to your tooth often reaches the pulp. Saving your tooth is your general dentist’s priority. That is why your dentist will perform endodontic therapy. This procedure will restore the form and function of your tooth. Regular appointments with your general dentist will maintain and care for your treated tooth.

Are you considering seeing a general dentist in the Alexandria area? Get more information at https://alexoldtowndental.com.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Alexandria, VA.