Endodontics
Dentistry, as practiced by the dentists at Clinique Poirier, your dental center in Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, consists of a multitude of disciplines, each focusing on a specific part of the mouth or teeth. While some of these disciplines are quite well known, others, such as endodontics, are less familiar. This branch of dental practice focuses on the inner part of the tooth, called the pulp, as well as the periradicular tissues (found around the root). Like other parts of the mouth and teeth, the pulp can be affected by infections that must be treated quickly to avoid complications. This highlights the importance of this little-known discipline!
ENDODONTICS, AN IMPORTANT DISCIPLINE
Contrary to what one might think, a tooth is not a simple, solid block. It is actually a complex structure made up of various parts, each of which contributes in its own way to its appearance and function. Schematically, it can be divided into three layers or sections:
- Enamel: White and very hard, it acts as the outer protective layer of the tooth.
- Dentin: This makes up the bulk of the tooth. Yellowish in color, it is located directly under the enamel.
- The pulp chamber: This is located in the center of the tooth and is the living part of the tooth. It consists of the pulp, blood vessels, and nerves that form it, as well as the root canals that supply it. It plays an important role in tooth growth.
Sometimes bacteria can enter the center of the tooth and attack the pulp. This is where endodontics comes in: thanks to this discipline, your dentist will be able to diagnose and treat infections of the pulp and periapical tissues. They can then perform root canal treatment, a procedure in which the canal is cleaned to eliminate the infection and allow the tooth to remain in place and continue to function normally.
CONSULT QUICKLY!
If you have tooth pain, don't wait to notify your dental team. Not only can such pain greatly affect your daily activities, but it is usually a sign of a significant infection that could cause further damage. Prompt treatment will save the tooth and relieve the pain so you can quickly get back to your normal routine!
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Office hours
Mon – Thu 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Fri 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Sat – Sun CLOSED
ROOT CANAL TREATMENT
When the pulp of the tooth, which contains blood vessels and nerves, becomes infected, root canal treatment may be necessary. During this procedure, the dentist performs a series of steps to empty and clean the canal. This eliminates the pain and allows the tooth to remain in place and continue to function normally.
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