Dental Specialists of
South Loop

Endodontic FAQ

What is endodontics?

Endodontic therapy also called a root canal, is one of the most common dental procedures to be performed. Endodontics is the treatment of the pulp or root canal and the surrounding tooth tissues. Receiving this treatment will prolong your teeth and prevent the need for dental implants. The pulp is located at the center of your tooth, and is a collection of blood vessels that helps to build the surrounding tooth. The pulp can become infected by trauma to the tooth, cracks and chips, decay, or repeated dental procedures. When infection occurs an endodontic specialist will remove the diseased pulp to save the tooth from future infection.

Why choose an Endodontist?

Endodontist specialists are the experts at saving teeth and are committed to helping you maintain your natural smile for a lifetime. At a minimum, an endodontist must have two years of additional education to become experts in their field of root canal treatment and diagnosing tooth pain.

When do I need to see an endodontist?

You will need to see an endodontist when your tooth has become decayed beyond the dentine layer into the pulp region, when this occurs root canal treatment is inevitable. A endodontic specialist will provide you with the proper care you need.

I’m worried about x-rays. Should I be?

X-rays are necessary during your endodontics treatment. Our office uses digital radiography, which is an advanced non-film computerized system that produces radiation levels lower than those of already low dose conventional dental x-ray machinery.

What happens after treatment?

Following your treatment, your restorative dentist will receive a record of the treatment performed. You will need to schedule appointment at our office a few weeks following your procedure for check up. Your restorative dentist will make the decision of what type of restoration will provide your teeth with maximum protection. Maintaining excellent dental hygiene is a must.

What if there is a problem or infection?

Problems and complications are rare after endodontic treatment or microsurgery, however, we are available at all times to assist. We adhere to the rigorous standards of infections control by OSHA.

What will happen to the color of tooth after treatment?

You should NOT experience discoloration to your tooth after root canal treatment. In comparison to older techniques, the evolution of finer dental materials and new technology has made it possible for discoloring to not occur.

How much will it cost?

The cost of treatment varies depending on factors such as the severity of the damage to the tooth. For the most part, endodontic treatment is much less expensive than removal and dental implants.

Your Smile. Your Health. Our Commitment.

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South Loop Dental Specialists

850 South Wabash, Suite 240
Chicago, IL 60605

312-356-4700