What are the Most Common Endodontic Procedures?

Endodontic procedures, commonly known as root canal treatments, are essential for saving teeth that are infected or damaged deep within the root canal system. These procedures are performed by skilled dentists who specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases of the dental pulp and surrounding tissues. In Alpharetta, GA, Main Street Dentistry is renowned for its expertise in endodontics, with Dr. Imad Sabbagh and Dr. Humam Salahieh leading the way in providing top-quality care. Let’s dive into the most common endodontic procedures and shed light on the invaluable role they play in preserving oral health.

1. Root Canal Therapy: Root canal therapy is perhaps the most well-known endodontic procedure. It involves removing infected or inflamed tissue from the interior of the tooth, known as the pulp chamber and root canals, and disinfecting the space before filling and sealing it to prevent further infection. This procedure is typically recommended for teeth with deep cavities, trauma, or abscesses.
2. Apicoectomy: In cases where a root canal treatment is not sufficient to resolve the infection, an apicoectomy may be performed. This surgical procedure involves removing the tip of the tooth’s root and surrounding infected tissue, followed by sealing the root end to prevent reinfection. Dr. Imad Sabbagh and Dr. Humam Salahieh at Main Street Dentistry are skilled in performing apicoectomies to save teeth that would otherwise require extraction.
3. Root Canal Retreatment: Despite the high success rate of root canal therapy, some cases may require retreatment due to persistent infection or incomplete healing. Root canal retreatment involves reopening the tooth, removing the previous filling material, and thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the root canal system before resealing it. This procedure is often recommended when a tooth continues to exhibit symptoms of infection or when a new infection occurs after a previous root canal treatment.
4. Pulpotomy: A pulpotomy is a partial removal of the dental pulp, typically performed on primary (baby) teeth, to alleviate pain and preserve the remaining healthy pulp tissue. We recommend this procedure for children with deep cavities or extensive decay that has reached the pulp chamber but has not yet affected the roots.
5. Vital Pulp Therapy: Vital pulp therapy is a conservative treatment approach aimed at preserving the vitality of the dental pulp in cases of reversible pulpitis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the pulp due to bacterial infection or trauma. This procedure involves removing the infected or inflamed tissue, disinfecting the pulp chamber, and placing a protective material to promote healing and prevent further infection.
6. Internal Bleaching: Internal bleaching is a cosmetic, endodontic procedure performed to improve the appearance of discolored teeth that have undergone root canal therapy. By applying a bleaching agent inside the tooth, endodontists can lighten the color of the tooth from within, restoring a natural-looking smile.
7. Endodontic Surgery: In complex cases where traditional root canal therapy is not feasible, endodontic surgery may be necessary to save the tooth. We may perform procedures such as apicoectomy, root resection, or root repair to address persistent infection, root fractures, or canal obstruction.
8. Traumatic Dental Injuries: Endodontic procedures are also commonly used to treat traumatic dental injuries, such as fractured or avulsed (knocked-out) teeth. Prompt intervention by a dentist can help save traumatized teeth and prevent the need for extraction.

Main Street Dentistry in Alpharetta, GA, under the guidance of Dr. Imad Sabbagh and Dr. Humam Salahieh, is dedicated to providing comprehensive endodontic care to patients of all ages. With their expertise, advanced techniques, and technology, they strive to preserve natural teeth whenever possible, offering patients the best possible outcomes for their oral health.

Endodontics in Alpharetta, GA

Whether it’s root canal therapy, apicoectomy, or vital pulp therapy, endodontic procedures are essential for saving teeth and relieving pain caused by dental infection or trauma. By seeking treatment from experienced endodontists like Dr. Sabbagh and Dr. Salahieh at Main Street Dentistry, patients can trust in the quality of care they receive and the long-term health of their smiles. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step towards preserving your oral health and saving your natural teeth.