Signs of pulp damage include pain, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, discoloration of the tooth, and swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums. Sometimes there are no symptoms.

In your initial consultation you will arrive 20 minutes prior to your appointment time to complete a full patient information form, medical history form, and consent for treatment form. As an option we have an online patient sign-in where you can fill all these forms out at your convenience at home before your appointment time.   

Once forms are completed we will take 2 radiographs. We take 2 radiographs to better diagnose your tooth and to see how many canal(s) your tooth may have. We will then complete a series of testing in the area of your mouth. Once testing is done you will meet the dentist and go over an in-depth treatment plan and fees involved.

Endodontic treatment is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected. The inflammation or infection can have a variety of causes: deep decay, repeated dental procedures on a tooth , or a crack or chip in the tooth. In addition, a blow to a tooth may cause pulp damage even if the tooth  has no visible chips or cracks. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain, swelling and may lead to an abscess.

New trauma, deep decay, or a loose, cracked or broken filling can cause new infection in your tooth. In some cases, the endodontist may discover very narrow or curved canals that could not be treated during the initial procedure by your general dentist.

We will take every measure to ensure that your procedure is in no way uncomfortable or painful. If treatment is needed, we will inject a small amount of anesthesia to gently numb a concentrated area of your mouth. For most patients, the feeling of numbness usually subsides after 2-3 hours.