Endodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that deals with the complex structures found inside the teeth. It relates to the tooth pulp, tissues, nerves and arterioles.

Endodontic treatment (or root canal therapy) is performed to save the natural tooth. In spite of the many advanced restorations available, most dentists agree that there is no substitute for healthy, natural teeth.

These are some of the main causes of tooth damage making root canal therapy necessary:

• Bacterial infections – Oral bacteria is the most common cause of endodontic problems. Bacteria invade the tooth pulp through tiny fissures in the teeth caused by tooth decay or injury. The resulting inflammation and bacterial infection jeopardize the affected tooth and may cause an abscess to form.
• Fractures and Chips – When a large part of the surface or crown of the tooth has become completely detached, root canal therapy may be required. The fracture of the crown portion leaves the pulp exposed, which can be debilitating painful and problematic.
• Cracks – Cracks are hairline fissures that may develop in teeth due to trauma or excessive function. They are often not visible clinically or on an x-ray, but are diagnosed by symptoms of pain to biting, chewing and temperature. If the trauma extends to the nerve, root canal therapy may be required.
• Injuries – Injuries to the teeth can be caused by a direct or indirect blow to the mouth area. Some injuries cause a tooth to become luxated, or dislodged from its socket. Root canal therapy is often needed after the dentist has successfully stabilized the injured tooth.
• Removals – If a tooth has been knocked clean out of the socket, it is important to rinse it and place it back into the socket as quickly as possible. If this is impossible, place the tooth in special dental solution (available at pharmacies) or in milk. These steps will keep the inner mechanisms of the tooth moist and alive while emergency dental treatment is sought. The tooth will be affixed in its socket using a special splint, and the dentist will then perform root canal therapy to save the tooth.

What does an endodontic procedure involve?

Initially, a local anesthetic will be administered, and a dental dam (protective sheet) will be placed to ensure that the surgical area remains free of saliva during the treatment. An opening will be created in the surface of the tooth, and the pulp will be completely removed.

The space will now be shaped, cleaned and filled with gutta-percha. Gutta-percha is a biocompatible material that is somewhat similar to rubber. Cement will be applied on top to ensure that the root canals are completely sealed off. Usually, a temporary filling will be placed to restore functionality to the tooth prior to the permanent restoration procedure.

During the final visit, a permanent restoration or crown will be placed.

A dental restoration is also called a filling. It is the repair of a damaged or decayed tooth that restores it to its normal shape, function and appearance. There are different types of materials used to repair teeth for particular situations.

Why should a damaged tooth be repaired? A tooth should be repaired to prevent further decay or injury to the tooth, to prevent loss of the tooth, to prevent decay from spreading to other teeth, to permit normal eating and chewing, and to improve upon the appearance of your smile.

What are the available dental restorations?

Amalgam fillings are made of two or more metals that are held in place by the shape of the prepared cavity. Although there is ongoing debate about mercury toxicity, scientific evidence supports the safety and efficacy of dental amalgam, and it remains a viable treatment option.

Bonding or composite restorations are made of a tooth coloured resin material. The filling material is fused to the tooth in layers and hardened using a curing light.

Inlay restorations are lab fabricated fillings that are cemented into teeth that have been specially prepared. An initial impression is taken of the prepared cavity and sent to the dental technician who will make the inlay out of tooth coloured porcelain or gold. An onlay restoration is similar to an inlay restoration only it covers and protects the chewing surface of the tooth.

Tooth loss may be caused by traumatic injury, tooth decay or periodontal disease. It is crucial to replace teeth that are missing as failure to do so can result in the shifting of remaining teeth, sagging of facial features, and an inability to chew and bite properly. Dentures can provide a solution to these issues. 

There are two types of dentures – complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when all of the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. A partial denture not only fills in the spaces created by missing teeth, it prevents other teeth from shifting. One of the best features of dentures today, is that they are customized in a way that they provide proper function and comfort while still maintaining a natural appearance, giving you the smile you deserve.

Dentures are very durable appliances and will last many years, but may have to be remade, repaired, or adjusted due to normal wear.

A mouthguard is highly recommended for all adults or children involved in active sports such as hockey, baseball, soccer, football, or martial arts. Studies show that athletes who wear mouthguards have 60% fewer injuries to their teeth.

Athletic mouth guards are custom fitted at our office. It is important that the fit of the mouthguard is comfortable and that it does not interfere with breathing or talking. Commercial mouthguards are less effective and may interfere with speech and/or breathing and often are not sufficiently retentive.

A properly fitted mouthguard must be:

• Protective
• Comfortable
• Resilient
• Tear resistant
• Tasteless
• Have excellent retention and fit
• Cause minimal interference with speaking and breathing

Bruxism (teeth grinding) is an involuntary grinding or clenching of your teeth, and usually occurs while you sleep. Grinding your teeth can create a great deal of force on your jaw, which can cause damage to your teeth and jaw joints. Most often the cause of grinding is stress related but can also be caused by the misalignment of your teeth. 

Some symptoms of grinding include sore jaw muscles, headaches and neck or ear pain. Upon oral examination, your dentist may see wear on your teeth that indicates you are grinding.

A nightguard can help protect your teeth from the harmful effects of grinding and clenching and prevent further damage. A nightguard is custom made to fit over your upper or lower teeth, preventing the teeth from grinding together and allowing your jaw joints to be positioned in the most relaxed state. Whether you are grinding or clenching, require TMJ therapy, or even have sleep apnea, different types of nightguards can be custom made. Ask our experienced team of dentists for treatment options.

“TMJ” actually stands for temporomandibular joint.  TMJ Disorder refers to a family of problems related to your jaw joint and has symptoms of general pain and/or clicking sounds when you open your mouth.  Some types of TMJ problems can lead to more serious conditions so early detection and treatment are important.

How do you know when you have TMJ Disorder?  The more times you answer “yes” to the following questions, the more likely you are to have it:

• Are you aware of grinding or clenching your teeth?
• Do you wake up with sore, stiff muscles around your jaw?
• Do you have frequent headaches, earaches or neck aches?
• Does stress make your clenching or pain worse?
• Does your jaw click, pop, grate, catch or lock when you open your mouth?
• Have you ever injured your neck, head or jaws?
• Is it difficult or painful to open your mouth to eat?

How is TMJ Disorder treated?  There are various treatment options that can be utilized for improving the function and harmony of your jaw.  We always tailor treatment to your individual needs.

Onlays and Inlays are also referred to as indirect fillings. They are fabricated in the dental laboratory. Onlay/inlay treatment provides long lasting dental restorations for teeth with mild to moderate damage. Onlays and inlays are fabricated from either tooth coloured porcelain or gold, providing both functionality and an esthetically restored smile.

Early detection of oral cancer offers the best chance of survival. Studies have shown that only half of all patients diagnosed with oral cancer survive more than five years. 

Oral cancer often starts as a tiny, unnoticed white or red spot or sore anywhere in the mouth. During oral cancer screening, we examine both the intraoral and extraoral structures. Routine examination by your dental professionals is important for early detection and treatment.