Patient Information

FAQ

What is endodontics?

Endodontics is a branch of dentistry recognized by the American Dental Association involving treatment of the pulp (root canal) and surrounding tissues of the tooth. When you look at your tooth in the mirror, what you see is the crown. The rest of the tooth, the portion hidden beneath the gum line, is called the root. Though the outer portion of the root is a hard tissue called dentin, the inside channel or "root canal" contains a pulp of soft tissue, blood vessels and nerves. Bacteria that are introduced into the pulp as a result of tooth decay, periodontal disease, tooth fracture or other problems, can severely damage the pulp. When that happens, an endodontic specialist removes the diseased pulp to save the tooth and prevent further infection and inflammation. After successful endodontic treatment, the tooth continues to perform normally.

Why do I need root canal therapy?

Root canal therapy is necessary when the pulp of your tooth becomes diseased or damaged. This can occur as a result of decay, repeated dental procedures (recently or over a long period of time) or a fracture. In addition, any type of trauma can cause damage to the pulp.

Will I feel pain during or after the procedure?

The goal of endodontics is to relieve pain caused by pulp inflammation or infection. With modern anesthetic techniques, the vast majority of patients report that they are comfortable during the procedure. For the first few days after treatment, your tooth may be sensitive or sore, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. In the majority of cases, over-the-counter pain relievers are used for this discomfort, but Dr. Morrison may prescribe additional medications for you.

What happens after treatment?

When your root canal therapy has been completed, a treatment report including digital images will be sent to your restorative dentist. You should contact your general dentist for a permanent restoration within a few weeks of completion at our office. Your restorative dentist will decide on what type of restoration is necessary to protect your tooth. We would like to see you 3 to 6 months after treatment for a follow-up exam and digital image to monitor your healing. There is no additional fee for this visit.

I'm worried about x-rays. Should I be?

No. While x-rays will be necessary during your endodontic treatment, we use an advanced non-film computerized system, called digital radiography. Digital radiography produces radiation levels up to 90 percent lower than those of already low dose conventional dental x-ray machinery. These digital images can be optimized, archived, printed and sent to your dentist via e-mail or diskette or hard copy.

What about infection control?

Again, there's no need for concern. We adhere to the most rigorous standards of infection control advocated by OSHA, the Centers for Disease Control and the American Dental Association. We utilize autoclave sterilization and barrier techniques to eliminate any risk of infection.

What is an operating microscope?

In addition to digital radiography, Dr. Morrison utilizes special operating microscopes during your treatment. This technology allows the endodontist to magnify and illuminate deep into the root canals of a tooth, often visualizing the source of infection. The operating microscope can also be used to record images of your tooth and communicate additional information to your general dentist.