Endodontists specialise in diagnosing and treating diseases affecting the inside of the tooth. Patients are often referred by their general dentist when a tooth cannot be treated with a simple filling and requires specialised care to preserve the natural tooth.
Infected Tooth Pulp
Bacteria can enter the pulp through deep decay, cracks, or trauma, leading to infection. Without treatment, the infection may spread beyond the tooth and cause pain or swelling.
Tooth Abscesses
A tooth abscess is a collection of pus caused by bacterial infection around the root of a tooth. Symptoms may include severe toothache, facial swelling, sensitivity to hot or cold foods, and pain when biting.
Cracked Teeth
Cracks in a tooth may allow bacteria to reach the dental pulp, causing pain and infection. Early diagnosis improves the chances of saving the tooth.
Dental Trauma
Accidents or sports injuries can damage the dental pulp even if the tooth appears intact. Endodontists assess traumatic dental injuries and provide treatment to preserve the affected tooth whenever possible.
Persistent Tooth Pain
Persistent or severe tooth pain may indicate inflammation or infection of the dental pulp. An endodontist can identify the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
Failed Root Canal Treatment
In some cases, a previously treated tooth may become infected again due to new decay, hidden canals, or incomplete healing. Endodontists can perform root canal retreatment to help preserve the tooth.
Deep Tooth Decay
When tooth decay extends into the pulp, root canal treatment may be necessary to remove infected tissue and save the tooth instead of extracting it.
Dental Pulp Inflammation (Pulpitis)
Pulpitis occurs when the dental pulp becomes inflamed due to decay, trauma, or repeated dental procedures. Early treatment may prevent the need for tooth extraction.
When Should You See an Endodontist?
You should consider seeing an endodontist if you experience:
- Persistent or severe tooth pain
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold foods
- Swelling of the gums or face
- A tooth abscess
- A cracked or injured tooth
- A darkened or discoloured tooth after trauma
- A failed or recurrent root canal infection
- Deep tooth decay involving the pulp
- A referral from your dentist for root canal treatment
Early treatment can often save a natural tooth, relieve pain, and prevent the infection from spreading.
Ready to Find an Endodontist?
Explore PRIME's featured endodontists below to learn about their qualifications, clinical expertise, clinic locations, and patient education resources. You can also browse related articles and videos to better understand root canal treatment, tooth infections, and available endodontic procedures before your consultation.
