An endodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on the treatment of the soft inner tissue of the teeth, also known as the pulp. This type of treatment is called endodontics, and it involves procedures such as root canal therapy and other surgeries to save damaged or infected teeth. If you have been referred to an endodontist for dental treatment, it’s good to have a basic understanding of the issue prior to your appointment. If you know the right questions to ask your endodontist, you may feel more at ease during your visit.
If you’re looking for an endodontist in Ellicott City, MD, who is dedicated to providing high-quality care and exceptional service, Access Endodontics is here for you. Dr. Burton Waxman and Dr. Lina Jarboe are highly experienced and skilled endodontists who have a passion for relieving pain, preserving natural teeth, and improving the overall oral health of their patients.
Call 410.304.7226 or contact us online today if you have questions for an endodontist or if you need to schedule an appointment—we’re always happy to help.
Reasons for an Endodontic Procedure
Endodontic procedures, commonly known as root canal treatments, are essential for addressing issues affecting the interior of a tooth. Here are key reasons why an endodontic procedure may be necessary:
- Persistent tooth pain – Continuous or severe tooth pain, especially when chewing or experiencing temperature sensitivity, often indicates infection or inflammation of the tooth’s pulp.
- Deep decay – Advanced tooth decay that has reached the pulp, causing infection, requires removal of the affected tissue to prevent further damage.
- Cracked or chipped teeth – Teeth that are cracked or chipped from trauma or accidents can expose the pulp, leading to infection.
- Abscessed tooth – A tooth abscess, which is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, needs to be treated to avoid spreading the infection.
- Repeated dental procedures – Multiple dental procedures on the same tooth can lead to pulp damage, necessitating an endodontic procedure to save the tooth.
- Gum disease – Severe gum disease can cause inflammation or infection that extends to the pulp of the tooth.
By addressing these issues promptly with an endodontic procedure, patients can alleviate pain, prevent further complications, and maintain their natural teeth.
The Top Questions to Ask Your Endodontist
1. How Much Experience Do You Have, and What Is Your Area of Specialization?
If you struggle with dental anxiety, our experienced endodontists can help. On top of the four years of dental school, an endodontist will also have a minimum of two years of additional specialized studies in their field. Beyond their schooling, your endodontist will have gone through many hours in the field and performed many procedures before beginning to treat patients in their own practice. Drs. Lina Jarboe and Burton Waxman are two of the most experienced endodontists in the mid-Atlantic. Explore our website to see what separates us from other endodontists in the area.
Endodontics is its own specialized area of dentistry. With that said, there is a chance that your endodontist will have their own specialized focus within endodontics. If you need a root canal, you’ll obviously want to know that your dentist specializes in endodontics.
2. How Can I Best Prepare for My Procedure?
Your endodontist is likely to tell you everything you need to know to best prepare for your upcoming procedure, but it won’t hurt to ask them to confirm the details. They’ll certainly tell you the big pre-procedure do’s and don’ts on their own, such as avoiding eating hard foods or drinking alcohol, but they may not give you the less imperative but still helpful ones, such as what you might want to eat or that you should get a lot of rest.
3. What Are Your Pain Management Options?
With the latest technology, today’s root canals are virtually painless. However, it’s always a good idea to ask what options are available for pain management.
It is always important to discuss with your endodontist what pain management option will be best for you based on your individual needs and medical history.
4. How Long Will My Procedure Take?
This is a good question to ask so that you can plan accordingly. Your endodontist should be able to give you a general time frame for how long the procedure will take but remember that every patient is different, and it may vary. Understand what type of transportation will be needed the day of your root canal in case you are given any medication for pain or sedation during the procedure.
5. What Are the Post-Procedure Instructions?
Be sure to ask your endodontist about what you should expect after your procedure is complete. They will likely provide you with specific instructions on how to care for your tooth, what foods to avoid, and any pain management measures you should take. It’s important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure a successful recovery and healing process.
Contact Access Endodontics with Your Endodontics Questions Today
If you’re in need of an endodontic procedure or have questions for an endodontist, don’t hesitate to contact Access Endodontics. Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional care and addressing any concerns you may have. Plus, we offer a wide range of pain management options to ensure your comfort during treatment. Call 410.304.7226 or reach out online today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Waxman or Dr. Jarboe and take the first step towards a healthier, pain-free smile.