Ongoing tooth pain, sensitivity that lingers after hot or cold foods, discomfort while chewing, or swelling around a tooth are reasons to have a dentist evaluate the area. At Advanced Dental Concepts, we provide endodontic care for concerns involving the dental pulp and tissues surrounding the tooth root. We examine the affected area, identify the source of the symptoms, and determine whether endodontic treatment or another approach may be appropriate.
When a Tooth May Need Endodontic Care
Within the tooth is the dental pulp, which consists of soft connective tissue, nerves, and blood vessels. Deep decay, a crack or chip, repeated dental procedures, or an injury can cause the pulp to become inflamed or infected. Trauma can sometimes affect the pulp even when there is no obvious damage to the outside of the tooth.
Symptoms vary depending on the condition. Persistent tooth pain, lingering sensitivity, discomfort when chewing, or swelling may be reasons to schedule an evaluation. These symptoms can have different causes, so an examination is needed before deciding whether root canal treatment is appropriate.
How We Evaluate the Affected Tooth
An endodontic evaluation begins with a discussion of your symptoms, when they started, and any relevant dental history. We examine the tooth and surrounding tissues and may perform additional tests to help assess the condition of the dental pulp.
Dental imaging can provide additional clinical information that may not be visible during an oral examination. Digital X-rays and 3-D imaging are available in our office and may be used when clinically appropriate to evaluate the roots, surrounding bone, or other structures involved in treatment planning.
Patients visiting an endodontic office may also need evaluation of a tooth that was previously treated but has developed new pain, swelling, or other symptoms. A previously root canal-treated tooth can occasionally develop a new problem and may require further evaluation.
What Happens During Root Canal Treatment
When the pulp is irreversibly inflamed or infected, root canal treatment may be recommended. After numbing the treatment area with local anesthetic, we create an opening in the tooth to reach the pulp chamber and root canals. The affected pulp is eliminated, and the canals are cleaned and shaped before being filled and sealed.
The purpose of treatment is to address the problem inside the tooth while preserving the natural tooth when it can be appropriately treated and restored. The details of the procedure can vary relying on the tooth involved, its root canal anatomy, and the condition being treated.
After root canal treatment, the tooth generally needs a permanent restoration to protect the remaining structure and restore function. The type of restoration recommended depends on the tooth involved, the amount of remaining tooth structure, and other clinical factors.
Supporting Comfort and Care After Treatment
We consider patient comfort throughout treatment. Our office offers amenities such as massage dental chairs, headphones, and individual tablets for patients who prefer additional comfort or distraction during an appointment. Sedation options, including IV sedation, are also available for eligible patients when appropriate for their treatment and individual circumstances.
Some tenderness or sensitivity may occur around the tooth after endodontic treatment. Until the permanent restoration is placed, we may recommend limiting chewing on the treated tooth. We provide aftercare instructions based on the procedure and recommend contacting our office if symptoms become severe, worsen, or cause concern.
Our Laguna Beach office welcomes patients from South Laguna, Arch Beach Heights, Top of the World, and Emerald Bay.
Have a Painful Tooth Evaluated
If persistent tooth pain, lingering sensitivity, or discomfort while chewing has you looking for a dentist near me, contact our Laguna Beach office. We can evaluate the affected tooth, explain what we find, and discuss appropriate treatment options.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Tooth pain can have several causes, and not every painful tooth requires endodontic treatment. An examination helps us determine what is causing the symptoms and which type of care may be appropriate.
Yes, in some cases. If a crack affects the dental pulp, root canal treatment may be considered. Whether the tooth can be treated relies on the location and extent of the crack and the condition of the remaining tooth structure.
Yes. A previously treated tooth can sometimes develop new symptoms or problems that require evaluation. Further evaluation can help determine the cause and whether additional treatment should be considered.
The final restoration depends on the tooth involved and its remaining structure. Some teeth require a crown for protection, while another type of restoration may be appropriate in other situations.
