FAQ

What is a root canal?
A root canal is a treatment used to repair and save at tooth that is backly decayed or becomes infected. During a root canal procedure, the nerve and the pulp are removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. Without treatment, the tissue surrounding the tooth will become infected and abscesses may form.

What damages a tooth’s nerve and pulp in the first place?
The nerve and pulp can become irritated, inflamed and infected due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on a tooth and/or large fillings, a crack or chip in the tooth, or trauma to the face.

What is periodontal (gum) disease?
Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. It is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Because periodontal disease is usually painless, however, you may not know you have it.

What causes periondontal disease?
Periodontal disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on the teeth. These bacteria create toxins that can damage the gums. In the early stage of periodontal disease, called gingivitis, the gums can become red, swollen and bleed easily. At this stage, the disease is still reversible and can usually be eliminated by daily brushing and flossing. In the more advanced stages of periodontal disease called periodontitis, the gums and bone that support the teeth can become seriously damaged. The teeth can become loose, fall out or have to be removed by a dentist.

How can I prevent periodontal disease?
- Brush your teeth twice daily
- Clean between your teeth every day (floss)
- Eat a balanced diet
- Visit your dentist regularly

What is Temporomandibular Disorder (TMJ of TMD)?
Several muscles help open and close the mouth. They control the lower jaw (mandible) as it moves forward, backward and side-to-side. Both TM joints are involved in these movements. Each TM joint has a disc between the ball and socket. The disc cushions the load while enabling the jaw to open widely and perform rotating and translocational movements. If these are not working together properly, this can result in a painful TMJ disorder.

What are the common symptoms?
- Pain in or around the ear
- Tenderness of the jaw
- Clicking or popping noises when opening the mouth
- Headaches and/or neckaches

What causes TMJ?
A dentist can help identify the source of the pain with a thorough exam and appropriate x-rays. Often it is sinus, toothache or an early stage of periodontal disease. But for some pain, the cause is not so easily diagnosed. The pain could be related to the facial muscles, the jaw or temporomandibular joint. Several conditions may be related to TMD, but they can be quite varied and are often difficult to pinpoint. TMD can result when the jaw muscles or jaw joints are affected. Some TM problems result from arthritis, dislocation, and injury. All of these conditions can cause a dysfunction. Muscles that move the joints are also subject to injury and disease, such as arithritis, may result in some TM problems. The factors that relate to the way that teeth fit together, such as the bite, may cause some types of TMD. Stress is thought to be a factor. TMD affects women of childbearing age more than men, or older men and women.

What are sealants?
Sealants are plastic materials that is usually applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, premolars, and molars. The plastic resin bonds into the depressions and grooves (pits and fissures). The sealant acts as a barrier, protecting enamel from plaque and acids.

Thorough brushing and flossing help remove food particles and plaque from smooth surfaces of teeth.