Endodontist in Clearwater
Endodontics is the dental specialty that studies and treats the soft tissue inside human teeth, often called the dental pulp. Root canal procedures affect the tissues surrounding the roots of a tooth and the interior dental pulp; therefore, if you need a root canal, you may require the services of an endodontist, but in most cases this service can be performed by your dentist at Smile Design. The main concern of an endodontic specialist is to relieve discomfort while saving your natural teeth.
What is a root canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that involves the removal of the pulp, the soft center of the tooth. The pulp comprises connective tissues, blood vessels, and nerves that help the tooth grow. A dentist administers local anesthesia before performing a root canal.
How to know if you need a root canal
If your pulp is injured or becomes infected or inflamed, you need a root canal. The tooth’s crown may remain solid even when the pulp is infected or dying. The best way to preserve the structure of your tooth is to get rid of injured pulp.
Additionally, if you notice sensitivity in your teeth, particularly to cold or hot sensations, you may require a root canal. Here are other signs you need a root canal:
- Pimples on your gums
- A chipped or cracked tooth
- Severe pain while biting or chewing
- Deep decay/darkening of the gums
- Swollen or tender gums
Periodontist in Clearwater
Periodontics is the specialty that studies and treats the bones and gums that surround and support your teeth. Periodontal disease is the inflammation or infection of those bones and gums. It begins with gingivitis, which can cause the gums to become red and swollen, and sometimes bleed. If not treated in time, gingivitis can develop into periodontal disease, one of the biggest threats to dental health.
Periodontal disease is more common in adults. According to the CDC, 47.2% of adults 30 and older experience some form of periodontal disease.
Periodontal treatment mainly involves controlling the infection through various surgical and non-surgical means.
Non-surgical treatments, such as cleanings, scaling, and root planing, focus on controlling the growth of the bacteria. These treatments in most cases can be treated at your general dentist’s office. On the other hand, surgical operations – which can range from tissue regeneration and flap surgery to bone grafts – attempt to restore the tissue supporting and surrounding the teeth.
Oral surgeon in Clearwater
Any surgical operation performed in or around your mouth – either on the jaw, teeth, or gums – is referred to as oral surgery. This is often done by an oral surgeon, a dental specialist trained and experienced in conducting specific types of surgery in the oral and maxillofacial region. Oral surgery includes dental implants, tooth extractions, bone and gum grafts, and jaw surgery.
Depending on your dentist’s training, many of these operations can be performed by your general dentist and won’t require a visit to a specialist.
Smile Design Dentistry offers a range of surgical options, performed by caring professionals dedicated to providing the highest quality service customized to your particular dental needs.
Contact Us for Specialty Services Today
Dental specialists are experts in their field, capable of providing patients with the highest quality of care. If you need the help of a dental specialist, look no further than Smile Design Dentistry. Make an appointment with us via our website to access endodontic treatment, periodontal services, and more.
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