Edward S. Lee, D.D.S. - Paul Weller, D.D.S.

Treatment Information

Introduction

This website is designed to answer your questions and improve our efficiency in providing endodontic care. We encourage you to discuss any aspect of this care, as we feel good communication is essential for successful treatment.

The term "Endodontics" is derived from the Greek words meaning inside of, or within a tooth. Modern day endodontics is concerned with preserving teeth that would otherwise be extracted. This is accomplished by root canal treatment.

Root Canal Treatment

Endodontic or root canal treatment is a procedure to save and preserve teeth that have experienced severe injury to the fragile nerve tissues inside the tooth. This tissue, which is called the pulp, is subject to damage from many factors. Deep or extensive decay that requires complex fillings may result in irreversible damage to the pulp. Traumatic injuries and fractures can also lead to pulpal problems and the need for root canal treatment. Many times symptoms do not occur for months or even years. Symptoms, when they are present, vary from mild sensitivity to temperature change, to a severe toothache and sometimes facial swelling.

Patient Comfort and Anesthetics

Root canal treatment is seldom a painful experience. Through the use of properly selected local anesthetics, we can control discomfort or pain. We will make every effort to provide for our patient’s comfort and well-being.

While treatment is relatively painless, tenderness and occasional swelling can occur between visits. These reactions may require a prescription for medication or additional treatment. We will be available if there are any problems.

X-Rays

X-rays are essential to successful root canal treatment. Prior to treatment, x-rays not only aid in the evaluation of the problem but also help determine the chances of success. During treatment they help determine the location and length of each canal for both the cleansing and filling phases of treatment. Our modern digital x-ray equipment and techniques enable us to minimize the radiation exposure to patients.

Treatment Procedures

Treatment is usually accomplished in one or two visits. Initially the root canals are thoroughly cleansed to remove the diseased pulp and to eliminate any infection. Each canal must then be carefully shaped to receive the filling. Treatment is completed by filling the canals to achieve a hermetic seal.

Restoration of The Treated Tooth

Upon completion of the root canal treatment you will be referred back to your primary care dentist for the final restoration of the tooth. Our office will send a report and a radiographic image of the treated tooth to your dentist. Most posterior teeth require crowns once root canal treatment is completed.

Teeth that are badly damaged by decay or that have excessively large fillings often need reinforcement to create a strong foundation on which your dentist can place a crown. This is achieved by placing a post and core and is separate from the root canal treatment. The need for this service will be determined on your first visit.

For more information about root canal treatment and saving your natural teeth, please visit the official website of the American Association of Endodontists at www.aae.org.

Insurance

As a courtesy to our patients, we will provide all assistance possible in supplying the insurance carrier with the proper information. However, our professional services are rendered to our patients, not to the insurance company.

Some insurance programs may base its allowances on a fee schedule which may not coincide with ours. We will provide all pertinent information to the insurance carrier and we will do our utmost to help our patients derive the maximum benefits available.

If you have any questions regarding fees or insurance coverage, please feel free to contact our office manager.