Conservative Dentistry & Endodontics

This is the branch of dentistry that keeps teeth in the mouth. A well-made filling or root canal treatment extends the life of a tooth that would otherwise be lost.

Fillings

Decay is removed and the cavity is rebuilt with a material matched to the tooth. Caught early, the work is small and the tooth keeps most of its own structure. Left longer, decay reaches the inner tissue and the treatment becomes more involved.

Root canal treatment

When decay or a crack reaches the pulp — the living tissue inside the tooth — the tooth usually cannot heal on its own. In root canal treatment the inflamed tissue is removed, the canals are cleaned and shaped, and they are sealed. The tooth stays in place and continues to function.

After root canal treatment

A treated tooth is more brittle than before, because part of its structure has been removed. Back teeth in particular often need a crown afterwards so they do not fracture under chewing forces.

Why timing matters

Early treatment is smaller, shorter and preserves more of the tooth. Pain that comes and goes, sensitivity to hot and cold that lingers, or a tooth that darkens are all reasons to have it looked at.

The right treatment for a particular tooth is decided after an examination and a radiograph.