Advanced Dentistry of El Paso

Endodontics

At Advanced Dentistry of El Paso, we pride ourselves on providing comprehensive and advanced dental services to our valued patients. Among our specialized areas of expertise is endodontic services, a vital branch of dentistry dedicated to diagnosing and treating dental pulp-related issues. Driven by our commitment to excellence and led by the experienced Dr. Johnny Verastegui, our endodontics services in El Paso, TX, aim to preserve natural teeth, alleviate pain, and promote lasting oral health.

What is Endodontics?

Endodontics focuses on the dental pulp, the innermost part of the tooth that houses the nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. Endodontic intervention is necessary to save the tooth from extraction when the dental pulp becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, trauma, or other factors. The most common endodontic procedure is a root canal, a process designed to remove the infected or damaged pulp, clean and disinfect the root canal system, and seal it to prevent future infection.

What are the Signs and Symptoms That I May Need Treatment?

Recognizing the signs and symptoms that may indicate the need for endodontic treatment is crucial for preserving the health of your teeth. Persistent tooth pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure, can be an early indicator of issues within the dental pulp.

Heightened sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that lingers after removing the stimulus may also signal underlying problems. Swollen or tender gums, accompanied by localized pain, may suggest an infection that requires endodontic intervention.

The tooth’s discoloration, often as a darkening or graying, can indicate damage or infection. Additionally, a pimple-like bump on the gums, known as a dental abscess, may signify a severe infection requiring prompt endodontic attention.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek professional dental care promptly to assess the situation and determine if endodontic treatment is necessary for preserving the affected tooth.

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal, commonly referred to as root canal therapy, is a dental procedure designed to treat and save a tooth that is severely infected or damaged. The dental pulp, which resides within the tooth’s core and houses nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues, can become compromised due to deep decay, trauma, or other factors. When left untreated, the infection within the pulp can lead to significant pain, abscess formation, and even tooth loss.

The Root Canal Procedure

1. Diagnosis and Examination: The journey toward a root canal typically begins with a thorough examination by Dr. Johnny Verastegui. Advanced diagnostic tools, such as digital X-rays, are employed to assess the extent of the damage and determine the necessity of root canal therapy.

2. Local Anesthesia: To ensure a pain-free experience, we will use local anesthesia to numb the affected tooth and the surrounding area. This step ensures that patients remain comfortable throughout the procedure.

3. Access Opening: Once we adequately numb the tooth, a small access opening is created in the crown portion to reach the infected or damaged dental pulp. This step allows Dr. Verastegui to access the root canal system.

4. Pulp Removal: The infected or damaged pulp is carefully removed from the tooth’s interior using specialized instruments. This process alleviates the pain associated with the infection and sets the stage for thorough cleaning and disinfection.

5. Cleaning and Disinfection: We will clean and disinfect the interior of the root canal system to eliminate any remaining bacteria or debris. This step is crucial for preventing the recurrence of infection.

6. Shaping and Filling: The cleaned root canal is shaped to accommodate a biocompatible filling material, typically gutta-percha. This filling material seals the canal, preventing the entry of bacteria and restoring the tooth’s structural integrity.

7. Temporary or Permanent Restoration: Depending on the specific case, we may place a temporary filling or crown on the tooth during the initial visit. We will schedule a follow-up appointment to replace the temporary restoration with a permanent crown, providing long-term protection and aesthetics to the treated tooth.

Other Endodontic Services

Our Endodontics services at Advanced Dentistry of El Paso encompass a range of treatments aimed at preserving the natural tooth structure and relieving patients of dental pain. These include:

1. Endodontic Retreatment:

Sometimes, a previously treated tooth may experience persistent issues. Endodontic retreatment involves the reopening and cleaning of the root canal to address any lingering problems.

2. Apicoectomy:

For cases where traditional root canal therapy is insufficient, we may recommend an apicoectomy. This surgical procedure involves the removal of the tip of the tooth root and the surrounding infected tissue.

3. Traumatic Dental Injuries:

Dr. Johnny Verastegui can handle dental trauma cases involving injuries to the dental pulp. Timely intervention in such cases is crucial to preserving the affected tooth.

Endodontics in El Paso, Texas

Don’t let dental pain or pulp-related issues compromise your oral health. Request your appointment with Advanced Dentistry of El Paso for expert Endodontics services. Dr. Johnny Verastegui and our skilled team are committed to helping you preserve your natural teeth and achieve lasting oral health. Contact us today to take the first step towards a pain-free and healthy smile.

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