Looking for an Endodontist Anchorage Trusts – Alaska Dental Associate
Alaska Dental Associates
2702 Denali St #201
Anchorage, AK 99503
(907) 562-2284
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An endodontist is a dentist who has chosen to specialize in endodontic therapy. In laymen’s terms, it means using treatments that deal with the pulp inside the teeth. Dealing with infections within the pulp can be tricky, for example, which is where endodontic treatments prove useful.
What Extra Training Do Endodontists Need?
An endodontist completes dental school and then undergoes another two years of training at a minimum. They can practice as a general dentist or specialist. The additional training allows them to learn about root canals and the diagnosis and treatment of pulp disorders.
When Should I See This Specialist?
You will typically need a referral from your regular dentist. Complex cases require an official referral to the specialist. Our dentist in Anchorage can provide you with a list of highly qualified endodontists when the need arises.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is the most common endodontic procedure. It’s also one that leaves us mere mortals in dread. Fortunately, with advances in medicine, the treatment itself is no longer as painful as it was previously.
There are a few steps for a root canal. Depending on the situation, you might need more than one visit.
A typical root canal procedure is as follows:
- The dentist will use a local anesthetic to dull the pain.
- The specialist isolates the tooth using a rubber dam, which ensures the area is kept dry and clean.
- The dentist drills a hole in the tooth so that they can access the pulp.
- They remove the infected pulp and hollow out the tooth.
- The shell is rinsed out and filled.
What Else Can They Do?
Numerous conditions require specialist intervention.
Pain Diagnosis
Pinpointing the tooth causing the problem can be challenging. Like other areas of the body, you might experience referred pain. The mouth contains plenty of nerve endings, and the inflammation could induce a sensation of pain in a different area.
It could be a small crack or fracture, which is almost impossible to diagnose. The specialist will identify the cause of the pain and come up with a treatment plan.
Traumatic Injuries
If you take a hard hit to the teeth, the pulp inside could be injured. If this happens to a child, root growth might stop, and the tooth wouldn’t have adequate support to anchor itself.
The dentist can diagnose this ailment and come up with a treatment plan. Most often, this will entail stimulating bone growth around the root. This process helps anchor the loosened tooth again.
After the first course of treatment, a root canal may be required to strengthen and mend the tooth. These treatments usually have a high rate of success.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
It’s hard to say upfront. The specialist will need to conduct a thorough investigation before any treatment plan begins. In some instances, all that’s required is a single treatment.
The dentist will also recommend that you have a follow-up appointment once or twice a year. Follow-up visits are necessary for up to two years after the initial treatment. Teeth are an essential part of the anatomy, and we must allow time for it to heal completely.
What if it Doesn’t Heal?
There are no guarantees that a root canal treatment will heal, but most patients find the procedure successful. In some cases, the pain and infection can set in again, which might mean that a second treatment becomes necessary.
Final Notes
Going in for a root canal is not everyone’s idea of a fun afternoon. It could save the tooth and reduce your pain significantly, however. The anesthetic available today is effective, and you’re not likely to feel more than a slight pinch and some pressure.
Isn’t that worth it if it means a mouthful of healthy teeth?
Contact Alaska Dental Associates if you have any queries on endodontist services in Anchorage!
Call Alaska Dental Associates today at (907)562-2284 to see how we can help you with your dental needs today!