(Practice)

(Specialty)

(Location)

(Phone)

Endodontics

Endodontics is the area of dentistry involved with the treatment of the pulp (root canal). At the center of your tooth is pulp. Pulp is a collection of blood vessels that helps to build the surrounding tooth.

Infection of the pulp can be caused by:

  • Trauma to the tooth
  • Deep decay
  • Cracks and chips
  • Repeated dental procedures

Symptoms of infection can be identified as:

  • Visible injury to gums
  • Swelling of the gums
  • Sensitivity to temperature
  • Pain in the tooth and/or gums

If you experience any of these symptoms, Dr. Hoffman will most likely recommend root canal treatment to eliminate the diseased pulp. This injured pulp is removed and the root canal system is thoroughly cleaned and sealed with a biocompatible material. This therapy usually involves local anesthesia and is generally completed in one visit. Success for this type of treatment occurs in about 90% of cases. You will be able to drive home after your treatment, and you probably will be comfortable returning to your normal routine. After root canal treatment the tooth should be restored as soon as possible. The best restoration to strengthen the weakened tooth is a crown or ceramic onlay.