Endodontics is the field of dental specialty that involves treatments of the dental pulp. Dental pulp is the innermost layer of the tooth that keeps it alive. It includes the tooth’s nerves, blood vessels and living connective tissues. When this area of the tooth is injured due to trauma, disease or decay, it often results in severe pain and sensitivity, and when untreated will cause the tooth to die and require an extraction.
The purpose of endodontic treatments are to restore the tooth after the dental pulp has been damaged so that you can continue to use it and avoid the need for an extraction. While there are several endodontic treatments available, the most common type of treatment is root canal therapy. Root canals remove infected tissues from the tooth, cleaning it and filling it to prevent reinfection and protect the tooth. Endodontic treatment may also be recommended for teeth that are cracked or have infections in the roots of the tooth. Common treatments include apicoectomy, pulpal debridement, pulpotomy and pulp caps.
To schedule a consultation with our skilled dentist, Dr. Elizabeth Kim, and learn more about endodontics in Lake Forest, California, please contact our office today at 949.446.0700. We at Lake Forest Dental are committed to helping you regain a healthy smile.