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1541 North Palm Avenue
Pembroke Pines, FL 33026
Dentist examining a patient's teeth in the dental office

Endodontics

The truth about endodontics: Root canal therapy relieves pain, saves damaged teeth in Pembroke Pines, FL

“Endodontics” is a medical term that refers to treating the inside of the tooth (“endo” and “odont” are Greek for “inside” and “tooth”). Endodontic treatment, however, is better known as root canal therapy. Modern root canal treatment is nothing to fear. In fact, it may be the only way to preserve a tooth that is damaged by tooth decay or trauma.

The truth about root canal treatment

Thanks to today’s advanced techniques and tools, we can effectively and precisely treat deep decay quickly and painlessly. Dr. Milton Ruiz here at Pines Dental Associates in Pembroke Pines, FL may determine that root canal therapy is the best way to restore your oral health and preserve the appearance and function of a damaged tooth if it has:

  • Sustained a severe fracture or chip
  • Undergone repeated dental procedures, and is now vulnerable to irreparable damage
  • Been treated previously with a crown, which is worn and at increased risk of infection
  • Sustained an injury that presents a threat to the health of the pulp tissue at the center of the tooth
  • Severe decay, resulting in inflammation or infection of the pulp

When the nerves and tissues at the center of the tooth are affected, you will probably know it! The pain can be quite severe. A serious infection known as an abscess can also form. Abscesses are associated with swelling and require prompt treatment. They can spread to other areas of the body and cause systemic infections (a medical emergency). Root canal therapy has a negative connotation because it is associated with pain. However, this treatment does not cause pain. It relieves pain and other symptoms. Furthermore, Dr. Ruiz administers anesthetic precisely to the treatment site. So, you will not feel any sensations during treatment. This process also provides instant relief after what could have been days of persistent pain that interferes with sleep, work, school, or eating comfortably. We can also discuss sedative options to help you relax if you are apprehensive about any upcoming treatments, including root canal therapy.

Treatment itself is straightforward. It is little more time-consuming and intensive than a common dental filling. Yet, no one really complains about fillings! Dr. Ruiz largely accesses the inside of the tooth. This step also helps to relieve uncomfortable pressure. He then removes damaged tissue from the root canals. These chambers are sterilized and reshaped, at which time the treated area is sealed off with a special gutta percha material. This material, as well as the application of a temporary crown, protects the site and prevents reinfection. A permanent, full-coverage crown usually provides the finishing touch. We can discuss options for crowns, that part of the tooth that is visible above the gumline, during an appointment at our office in Pembroke Pines.

Dr. Ruiz also provides hope to patients who have had root canal therapy previously. He may recommend retreatment to “save” the damaged tooth; for instance, we may need to gain access to narrow canals or areas deep in the jaw.

Do not delay in getting the treatment that you need. Contact us today to schedule your appointment. Our offices are located conveniently on North Palm Avenue, off 99th or 101st Avenue, and our staff is fluent in both English and Spanish.

Dr. Milton Ruiz, Pines Dental Associates

Dr. Milton Ruiz believes everyone should be able to attain excellent oral health, and his mission is to provide the highest quality care at the most affordable cost to all his patients. Dr. Ruiz is a general dentist with over 25 years of expertise who graduated from Tufts Dental School in Boston.

Dr. Ruiz has completed over 500 hours of continuing education in his decades of practice to keep current on new technology and improvements in dentistry. He is skilled in all aspects of dentistry, including cosmetic dentistry, root canal therapy, sleep apnea therapy, orthodontics, Invisalign certification, Oral Conscious Sedation, and restorative dentistry. You can rely on him to make your dental visit as comfortable as possible.

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