“Endodontics” is the specialty of dentistry that deals with the diseases of the dental pulp. The word is Greek; “endo” means inside, and “odont” means tooth. The inside of the tooth has a space which contains nerves and blood vessels. When combined these are called the “dental pulp”. Although the pulp is important for the development of the tooth, it is not necessary for the tooth to function. Therefore, we can remove this tissue, and still maintain the tooth in the mouth.
 

“Root Canal Therapy” is a term sometimes used in place of “endodontics”. Root canal therapy refers to removing infected or damaged pulp tissue from the inside of the tooth, cleaning out the root canal space, and filling the space so that it is sealed off from saliva and bacteria. This allows any infections, which may have existed before the root canal therapy was done (i.e. an abscess; like in the picture to the left), to heal and for the existing, surrounding tissues to return to normal.
 

An endodontist is a dentist who received 2-3 years of advanced specialty training for diagnosis and treatment of more difficult cases. They perform routine, as well as difficult and very complex endodontic procedures, including retreatment of previously treated teeth that might be failing, and surgeries on the roots of teeth. 

Oral pain, such as toothaches, can often be difficult to pinpoint. Because of the vast network of nerves in the mouth and teeth, the pain of a damaged or diseased tooth is often felt in another tooth or area of the mouth, neck, head or ear. An endodontist is a specialist trained in determining where the pain is coming from, and in treating the pain.

Endodontists are also trained in treating traumatic injuries to the teeth. If a tooth gets knocked out, many times it is still possible to save it when treated appropriately. Endodontists are the specialists to see if this occurs. They are also trained to treat injuries involving fractured or broken teeth.
 

Lastly, at Prescott Endodontics, we believe it is also important that our patients understand what is going on. As an endodontist, Dr. Prescott is also an educator, and believes that a properly informed patient has the greatest chance of achieving the best results.