What is endodontics?
Recognized by the American Dental Association, Endodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry focused on the treatment of the pulp and surrounding tissues of a tooth. The visible part of your tooth is the crown, and the portion hidden beneath the gum line is the root. The root’s hard outer tissue is called cementum, and the inside channel, or root canal, contains your tooth’s pulp, a soft tissue composed of blood vessels and nerves. When tooth decay, periodontal disease or a fracture introduce bacteria into the pulp, discomfort and severe damage ensue.
Who performs endodontic treatment?
Your general dentist or an endodontic specialist, known as an endodontist, performs root canal treatment.
Smart Endodontics, is a recognized leader in endodontic care. In addition to a comprehensive degree in dentistry, Dr. Smart completed two years of advanced endodontics training through an accredited advanced university program and specialized residency. Our practice is limited to endodontics, which includes performing routine root canals, completing corrective retreatments, apical surgery, and caring for medically complex patients.
Does a root canal hurt?
No, a root canal should not hurt. At Smart Endodontics, a root canal is a gentle and painless experience because we use state-of-the-art technologies, innovative techniques and modern anesthesia practices to ensure our patients’ comfort.
How long does a root canal take?
Each case is unique; however, on average, a root canal takes 90 to 120 minutes to complete.
What happens after treatment?
After your root canal therapy, we send a record of the treatment to your general dentist, and you should contact your general dentist’s office for a follow-up restoration (crown or filling to close the root canal access hole) within a few weeks.
Meanwhile, to prevent fracture, avoid eating on the treated tooth until it is restored by your dentist.
Will I need a check-up appointment after my root canal?
Yes. You may return to our office for periodic examinations to ensure complete healing of your tooth.
What about infection control?
Our office adheres to the most rigorous standards of infection control advocated by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and the American Dental Association (ADA). As members of the Organization for Safety and Asepsis Procedures (OSAP), a group dedicated to advancing infection control, we use autoclave sterilization and barrier techniques to eliminate any risk of infection.
How many appointments will I need?
It ranges from 2-3 appointments to complete endodontic treatment.
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(802) 862-3685
Christopher J. Smart D.D.S., M.S.
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