The #1 Endodontic Care Provider in Maricopa County
At the center of each tooth is the pulp, which contains the nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue that help form the tooth. The pulp can become irritated or infected by trauma, deep decay, cracks, chips, or repeated dental work. Common symptoms include visible injury, swelling, sensitivity to temperature, or pain in the tooth and gums.
When these symptoms appear, your dentist may recommend nonsurgical root canal treatment to remove the damaged pulp and clean and seal the root canal system. Local anesthesia is used to keep you comfortable, and nitrous oxide may be available if needed. Depending on the tooth and the extent of the issue, treatment may require one or more visits. Most cases respond well to therapy, with a high rate of success. If treatment is not possible or the likelihood of success is low, you will be informed at your consultation or during treatment. After the procedure, most patients can drive home and return to normal routines.
These are very small cracks that affect only the outer enamel. They are common in adults and do not usually require treatment.
When part of the chewing surface becomes weakened, it may break off or be removed by a dentist. The pulp is rarely affected, so root canal treatment is usually not required. A crown is often used to restore the tooth.
This type of crack begins at the chewing surface and extends vertically toward the root. In some cases, it may reach below the gumline or continue down the root. Damage to the pulp is common, and root canal treatment is often necessary. Without treatment, the crack can worsen and lead to tooth loss, making early detection important.
A split tooth results from a crack that has progressed over time. It is identified by a crack with clearly separated segments. While the entire tooth cannot be saved, part of it may sometimes be preserved through endodontic retreatment and restoration.
This type of fracture begins at the root and moves upward. Symptoms are often minimal, and the fracture may not be noticed right away. Treatment may involve surgery to remove the fractured portion if possible. In other cases, the tooth may need to be extracted.
