At University Centre Dental Associates, Dr. Maurice Haynes offers endodontics as part of his top-notch general dental services for local residents in and around Washington, DC, including residents in Greenbelt, MD, and Bowie, MD, as well as Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, and Anne Arundel County.
What Are Endodontics?
Also known as root canal therapy, endodontics is an area of dentistry that addresses the causes and diseases associated with the dental pulp. Typically, treatment consists of performing a pulpectomy, or removing the pulp and cleaning and filling the pulp chamber and root canals — a process that is a part of root canal therapy.
What Signs Indicate a Need for Endodontics?
Some people may not notice any symptoms while others may experience the following symptoms:
- Severe pain in a tooth when chewing or applying pressure
- Lingering sensitivity or pain to hot or cold temperatures, even after removing the heat or cold
- Darkened tooth
- Recurring or persistent pimple on the gums
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums
When Is a Root Canal Procedure Advised?
Root canals are recommended when a tooth has a deep cavity, is cracked, or has been injured. If the pulp is dead or infected and is not treated, pus can develop at the tip of the root within the jaw. In turn, an abscess will form. The abscess can destroy the surrounding bone as well as be painful.
What Is Involved in Root Canal Therapy?
Root canals involve several steps. After getting the patient numb, the dentist places an opening via the back of a tooth if it is a front tooth or through the biting surface if it is a back tooth. Then a pulpectomy is performed, in which the diseased or dead pulp is removed. The pulp chamber, as well as the root canals, are then cleaned and shaped so they can be filled.
If another visit is indicated, the opening to the crown is temporarily filled until the next visit. When the pulp chamber and root canals are filled, a dental material called gutta-percha is placed into each canal and then sealed with cement. In some instances, a rod made of plastic or metal is inserted into the canal to support the structure. Finally, a crown is typically placed on the tooth to restore it to its original appearance.
How Long Does a Root Canal Last?
With continual care and restoration, such as a crown, a root canal can last a patient’s lifetime.
Why Choose Dr. Maurice Haynes of University Centre Dental Associates?
Dr. Maurice Haynes stays up-to-date on the newest advances and technologies in the field of dentistry in order to provide his patients with the best care possible. He combines excellent dental services with compassion and is an active member of the American Dental Association.
How Much Does Endodontics Cost in Greenbelt, MD?
The cost for endodontics varies. Please schedule a consultation with University Centre Dental Associates to discuss your particular case.
Your dental insurance may cover the cost of endodontics. Because every policy is different, the staff at University Centre Dental Associates will review your information and help determine the status of your endodontics coverage.
We provide financing through CareCredit® as an option for any out-of-pocket endodontics costs you may have. University Centre Dental Associates also offers a variety of payment methods to help make the process easier for our endodontics patients.
Additional Restorative Dentistry Services:
- Dental Bridges
- CEREC® Procedure
- Composite Fillings
- Crowns (Caps)
- Fixed Bridges
- Periodontics
- Root Canal
- TMJ Mouth Guards
- Tooth Restoration
How Do I Schedule a Consultation?
Please call 301-220-1900 today to schedule your initial consultation!The general dental and orthodontic services we offer at University Centre Dental Associates have improved the lives of people from in and around Washington, DC, including residents in Greenbelt, MD, and Bowie, MD, as well as Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, and Anne Arundel County. Whether you are an adult, a child, or a teenager, our knowledgeable staff is committed to helping you achieve the smile you deserve.