Endodontic FAQ

What is endodontics?

Endodontics is a branch of dentistry recognized by the American Dental Association involving treatment of the pulp (root canal) and surrounding tissues of the tooth. When you look at your tooth in the mirror, what you see is the crown. The rest of the tooth, the portion hidden beneath the gum line, is called the root. Though the outer portion of the root is a hard tissue called dentin, the inside channel or “root canal” contains a pulp of soft tissue, blood vessels and nerves. Bacteria that are introduced into the pulp as a result of tooth decay, periodontal disease, tooth fracture or other problems, can severely damage the pulp. When that happens, an endodontic specialist removes the diseased pulp to save the tooth and prevent further infection and inflammation. After successful endodontic treatment, the tooth continues to perform normally.

What about infection?

At Victor Endodontics, PLLC, we take infection control very seriously.  We adhere to the most rigorous standards of infection control advocated by OSHA, the Centers for Disease Control and the American Dental Association. We utilize autoclave sterilization and barrier techniques to address any risk of infection.  We are proud to adhere to the strictest standards.

What happens after treatment?

When your root canal therapy has been completed, a record of your treatment will be sent to your restorative dentist. We will coordinate with you and your dentist one each case to discuss what, if any, further treatment is needed to restore and maintain the tooth.  It is rare for endodontic patients to experience complications after routine endodontic treatment or microsurgery. If a problem does occur, however, we are available at all times to respond.  If you have been recently treated at Victor Endodontics, PLLC, and it is after hours, Dr. Shaughnessy can be reached on an emergency number at (585) 502-8765.