Description
An endodontic treatment saves a severely injured, cracked, or decayed tooth when its pulp (the soft inner tissue inside a tooth’s root canal) becomes inflamed or infected. If it is not treated promptly, pain or a tooth abscess (infection) results. Endodontic treatment is also known as a “root canal.” Root canal treatment is completed in one or two office visits, depending on the presence of infection and the required treatment plan. After restoration, the tooth continues to function like any other tooth. With good oral hygiene, the restored tooth has the potential to last a lifetime. After reviewing a Digital X-ray of your tooth, the endodontist will thoroughly examine your teeth, gums and supporting bone structure. A local anesthetic is applied to the affected tooth and surrounding area; An opening is made in the top of the tooth and your endodontist will remove the soft pulp and nerve and then shape the interior for filling; The root canal is cleaned, medicated, and filled with a rubber-like biocompatible material; A temporary filling is placed pending your permanent restoration, such as a crown (not included), to protect the tooth.
Under the supervision of our expert faculty, dental students and residents (dentists in training) provide high-quality care at reduced rates. Since we are a teaching institution and care is delivered in an instructional environment, treatment times are sometimes longer than in a private practice setting. The School of Dentistry USC Endodontic Clinic specializes in the study, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases associated with the roots of the teeth. Endodontic services aim to save the patient’s natural teeth by restoring dental health and function. Our clinic performs root canal treatment and other procedures to treat the inner tooth and roots and to restore teeth through placement of fillings or crowns.
