The 411 on Endodontists and Endodontic Care

Have you recently been told you need to see an endodontist, but you are not exactly sure what an endodontist is or why you need to see one? Let us help you!

A Dentist vs. An Endodontist

• A dentist is the first person you go to for oral health care. Dentists can provide treatment for most dental conditions including fillings, crowns and minor root problems. The main goal of a dentist is to provide preventative care in the form of cleanings, but when a problem occurs, they are also the first one to evaluate your condition and make recommendations for treatment.
• An endodontist is a dentist who is a specialist in root canal treatment. Their practice is focused on treating the most difficult and complex cases. Endodontists typically restrict themselves to root canal treatment and customarily do not place crowns or fillings, so when the root canal treatment is completed, you will be referred back to your dentist for the final restoration of the tooth.

Think of it this way, the teeth have three layers, the enamel, the dentin and the pulp. If you have a problem with the enamel or the dentin, you will see a dentist. If you have a complication dealing with the pulp, you will need to see an endodontist.

What Is a Root Canal?

When you visit your endodontist, they will assess the condition of the tooth. When decay goes beyond the surface of the tooth, below the gum line and into the root, the only options at that point are extraction and root canal therapy. The nerve in the tooth is damaged, the living tissue in the tooth is infected and the entire well-being of your mouth is compromised. Without treatment, the infection can spread to other teeth very easily.

Root canal therapy is used so that you can save an infected tooth. The endodontist removes the pulp, the bacteria and the decay that is inside the tooth and then fills the tooth with specific dental material that restores the function of the tooth. A crown will be placed over the filling for complete restoration of the tooth. After treatment is complete, the tooth should no longer experience sensitivity to cold or hot temperatures and will not be subject to a reoccurrence of infection.

Root canal therapy allows us to save teeth that may otherwise have to be extracted. Often, patients believe that an infected tooth will have to be removed, but can benefit from a root canal instead. In addition, extracting a tooth can actually be more expensive, and create new issues for your remaining surrounding teeth.

Signs You Need a Root Canal

There are several ways to know when you need to have your teeth evaluated for possible infection of the root:

• Serious decay of the tooth
• Constant tooth pain
• Swollen gums
• A “pimple-like” fistula on the gum next to a tooth that has a lot of decay
• A fractured tooth
• Dental sensitivity to hot and cold
• A sports injury to the mouth
• Injury to a child’s developing tooth

Specialized Equipment

Endodontists use specialized equipment to gain a better understanding of exactly what needs to be done to treat your specific condition.

• Cone Beam CT – Provides high-quality 3-D images of the teeth, sinuses and bones of the mouth. These images are used to more accurately diagnose issues while emitting very little radiation.
• Surgical Microscope – Surgical microscopes enhance even the tiniest detail of your tooth. These microscopes magnify all features of the tooth, some which are invisible to the naked eye, and illuminates the work area, ensuring that your procedure is completed to the highest standards.
• Digital imaging – Used to see what is going on inside your tooth before a procedure begins. These images are clear and easy to read, and can be digitally loaded and transferred back to your dentist for future reference.

Overland Park’s Board-Certified Endodontist, Dr. Christopher Budig!

Dr. Budig has been practicing dental care for over two decades. He is dedicated to providing exceptional care to all his patients and provides the latest in advanced technology. Less than 20% percent of all U.S. Endodontists are board certified, and Dr. Budig is now one of only two Board-Certified Endodontists in Johnson County. Becoming a Board-Certified Diplomate is a voluntary process that reflects Dr. Budig’s commitment to the specialty and is the highest status an endodontist can achieve. If you need endodontic care, contact our office today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Budig.