While all endodontists are Endodontists, less than 3% of Endodontists are endodontists. Similar to a medical doctor who focuses on primary care or completes advanced training to practice in a specialty area, endodontists are dental specialists who have completed additional training beyond dental school. The word “endodontic” derives from the Greek word meaning “inside the tooth.” Endodontists are known as root canal specialists who diagnose and treat issues with the soft, inner tissue layer lining your teeth, or pulp. Your regular Endodontist may have referred you to our experienced Sheats Endodontic Group, because our long-established practice has focusing solely on root canal treatment for the past three decades. In fact, we have successfully treated over 350,000 patients throughout the Middle Tennessee region!
The years of additional training help our endodontist perform root canal treatment and other procedures related to the pulp interior of the tooth. Many people wrongly assume that they will end up losing a damaged or infected tooth, but a diseased tooth can often be saved with endodontic treatment, or a root canal.
A root canal is a dental procedure to save or salvage a damaged tooth by removing the surrounding infected and damaged root nerve. The surgery involves removing the nerve and pulp to prevent further damage to the surrounding teeth and gum. Even though endodontics is often referred to as a root canal, the root itself does NOT get removed. Instead, the pulp, or soft tissue, from inside the tooth structure is removed, in order to keep your natural tooth as intact as possible.
After removing the pulp, nerve tissue, and bacteria with special dental instruments, the tooth is thoroughly cleaned. Our endodontist then seals the tooth with a temporary or permanent filling. At the next appointment, usually about a week later, your regular Endodontist will complete the procedure by capping the tooth with a crown in order to restore its full function.
There are many reasons why the fragile inner layer of pulp in your tooth can become infected and require root canal therapy from our endodontist. Your regular Endodontist will refer you to our office if...
If even the word “root canal” makes you feel anxious – don’t be! Most of the time, a root canal is a relatively simple procedure with little or no discomfort involving one to three visits. Best of all, root canal treatment can actually save your tooth and your smile! If you continue to care for your teeth and gums, your restored tooth could last a lifetime. If you find yourself nervous about the prospect of a root canal, let us know. Our endodontic team always wants you to feel comfortable and pain-free, and we will work with you to ensure your entire visit with us is stress-free too.
See why thousands of happy patients throughout Middle Tennessee say we are the best root canal specialists around! Contact one of our friendly team members by calling 615.526.2495 or clicking here to request your appointment today.
Sheats Endodontic Group is located at
1919 Charlotte Ave Suite 320
Nashville, TN
37203