Endodontics FAQs

Learning About Martha’s Vineyard Endodontics with Dr. Karen Gear.

Martha’s Vineyard Endodontics is a branch of dentistry that is mainly concerned with disorders of the tooth pulp and any supporting structures. As a leading endodontist, Dr. Karen Gear is highly trained and skilled in performing complicated treatments such as root canals. In order to become a licensed endodontist, Dr. Gear has completed a minimum of two years of post-graduate training courses. Dr. Gear works with patients that cannot be treated by a general dentist to include patients with narrow or obstructed root canals as well as those with unusual tooth anatomy.

How Does Martha’s Vineyard Endodontics Work?

To understand how endodontics works, you must be familiar with the different parts of a tooth. A normal tooth contains several layers:

  • Enamel – This is a hard, protective layer that covers the surface of the tooth
  • Dentin – This is the underlying layer that supports the enamel
  • Pulp – This is the part of the tooth that Dr. Gear is concerned with

The pulp is the soft tissue at the center of the tooth. It contains blood vessels that distribute oxygen and nutrients throughout the tooth. During a typical root canal procedure, Dr. Gear will remove the pulp from the tooth. The pulp is only necessary during the tooth’s development stage. Afterward, the tooth can receive any necessary nourishment from surrounding tissue.

Are getting root canals painful?

No, This may have been true in the past, but with modern technology, root canals at Martha’s Vineyard Endodontics are relatively painless. In fact, they relieve pain more than they cause it. Thanks to new technologies, getting a root canal is comparable to getting a filling.

Do root canals cause illness?

There is no scientific evidence available to support the claim that illness can result from having a root canal. This myth originated several decades ago when a physician claimed that root canals could cause trapped bacteria to be released into the bloodstream and make patients sick. This is an outdated claim that is not supported by any current medical research. The American Dental Association continues to support root canals as a safe and effective treatment option.

Do I need a root canal or are tooth extractions better?

Natural teeth will always feel and function better than prosthetics. Root canals at Martha’s Vineyard Endodontics have a high success rate and have given millions of patients the chance to keep their natural teeth. Unlike prosthetics, real teeth don’t cause difficulty eating or speaking, nor do they allow for bone deterioration. Natural teeth both look and feel better while keeping the jaw healthy.

These facts should help you to make an informed decision about having a root canal. Modern technology allows for a painless procedure without the risk of illness. For more information about root canals, please call the offices of Dr. Gear today and schedule your consultation!

 

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