What is endodontic treatment, and when is it necessary?

Patients experiencing severe pain, infection, or damage to a natural tooth may be told by their dentist that they may benefit from a procedure called root canal therapy. Root canal therapy, or endodontic treatment, is a specialized treatment used to keep a tooth from requiring permanent extraction, saving the structure and keeping the smile intact. Dr. Rich Flores of Willoughby, Ohio, is here to help, educating patients on the benefits of root canal therapy and what they can expect from their procedure.

What is root canal therapy?

Also known as endodontic surgery, root canal therapy is performed by a dentist who has experience providing this unique and reliable treatment to save a tooth. During the procedure, the dentist will access the inner canals of the natural tooth, remove the dental pulp and other tissues located inside, and then seal the tooth to keep bacteria out. The entire process is done during a single appointment, and a second appointment is scheduled to prepare the smile for a dental crown. The crown is a zirconia restoration placed over the treated tooth to prevent further damage. The purpose and goal of endodontic therapy are to save the tooth from permanent extraction after infection or significant trauma.

How do I know if I am required to work with a root canal doctor?

Dr. Flores is a dentist who has the experience and training to provide root canal therapy and other general and cosmetic dentistry services. He can educate you on your need for root canal therapy or the extraction of a tooth based on his evaluation and knowledge.

Are there any alternative treatments to emergency root canal treatment?

Endodontic treatment is the last procedure available to save a tooth from extraction. Without root canal therapy, patients are faced with removing and replacing the tooth.

Contact our Willoughby, Ohio, area practice to learn more!

Call (440) 856-8774 to request a consultation appointment with Dr. Rich Flores and his team at Richard C. Flores, DDS, LLC at 34940 Ridge Road, Suite A, to discuss your options for repairing and restoring the smile. We invite new patients and families into our office for comprehensive dental care, including general, cosmetic, and restorative services.