Every specialized area of dentistry is unique. Each has its own specific terminology, which will sound unfamiliar to the average person. Endodontics is no different in this regard. If you need an endodontist in Ellicott City, reach out to Access Endodontics today.
Dr. Lina Jarboe, Dr. Burton Waxman, and our dedicated team of dental professionals are committed to ensuring that your first experience with endodontics is a good one. We’re proud to help all patients with the services needed to address problems with the inner tooth.
There are several new words you’re likely to hear during your first appointment with an endodontist. Learning them before your initial visit, may be helpful. Therefore, we’ve compiled this quick guide to common endodontic terminology.
Common Endodontic Terminology
The following list includes frequently used words you might hear during your endodontic appointment.
Endodontics
Endodontics refers to a specialized area of dentistry which focuses on diagnosing and treating issues related to the tooth’s interior.
Crown
The crown is the part of the tooth that lies above the gum line and is protected by enamel.
Dental Pulp
Dental pulp is the collection of blood vessels, nerve endings, and tissues found inside the tooth.
Dentin
Dentin is the dense material that comprises much of the tooth. This section of the tooth lies on the inside of the tooth and surrounds the dental pulp.
Enamel
Enamel refers to the outermost layer of the tooth that covers the crown and serves as an insulating barrier.
Gingiva
Gingiva is otherwise known as the gum tissue or the gums. This is the part of the mouth that covers the roots and necks of the teeth.
Tooth Root
The tooth root is the lower section of the tooth. It’s attached to the jaw by the periodontal ligament.
Abscess
An abscess is swelling caused by pulpitis that can result in pus accumulation, acute pain, and extreme tooth sensitivity.
Pulpitis
Pulpitis is inflammation of the dental pulp caused by a bacterial infection. Some pulpitis can be reversed, while some may be irreversible, leading to the need for a root canal procedure.
Common Endodontic Procedures
The following set of endodontic terminology refers to the different kinds of procedures that an endodontist may perform.
- Root canal therapy – Root canal therapy is the most common procedure performed by endodontists. It is designed to preserve a natural tooth which has become infected. A root canal includes the removal of dental pulp, thorough cleaning of the interior tooth, and filling it with a rubber-like substance called gutta-percha.
- Endodontic retreatment – Endodontic retreatment refers to a procedure to save a tooth following an unsuccessful root canal. During a retreatment, the endodontist reenters the tooth, removes the gutta-percha filling, and attempts to find the source of the infection. Once found, they will remove the infection, then refill and seal the tooth.
- Apicoectomy – Apicoectomy is another procedure designed to address an unsuccessful root canal treatment. It involves the removal of a small section of the tooth’s root tip via a tiny incision in the gingiva.
Dental Trauma Treatment
In instances in which dental trauma was significant enough to have damaged the dental pulp, an endodontist will treat the injury so that the tooth does not need to be extracted.
In Need of an Endodontist? Turn to Access Endodontics
Whether you’re in need of root canal therapy, an apicoectomy, or any other endodontic procedure, Dr. Lina Jarboe and Dr. Burton Waxman at Access Endodontics can provide you with the compassionate care and high-quality treatment you’re looking for. Call us at 410.304.7226 or contact us using the online form.