Tooth decay is a common dental problem, and unfortunately, sometimes it can progress to the point of causing the tooth to die. When this happens, the tooth must be treated with a root canal to remove the infected or dead tissue and save the tooth. But how do you know if a dead tooth is successfully treated? This is where endotesting comes into play. In this blog post, we’ll talk all about endotesting for dead teeth and why it’s so important for preserving your dental health.
What is Endotesting?
Endotesting is a diagnostic tool used to assess the success of a root canal treatment. It involves testing the tooth to see how it responds to different stimuli, such as temperature and pressure. Endotesting can help detect any problems or issues with the root canal, such as a missed canal or a crack in the tooth that can lead to future decay.
Why is Endotesting Important?
Endotesting is essential for ensuring the success of a root canal treatment. If a root canal is not successful, the tooth can become re-infected, causing pain and discomfort, and potentially even necessitating an extraction. Endotesting can help detect any problems or issues early on so they can be addressed as quickly as possible, ensuring a successful treatment outcome.
How is Endotesting Done?
Endotesting is a painless and non-invasive procedure. Your dentist will use an electronic pulp tester, which sends an electric current into the tooth to check the sensitivity of the nerve. They may also use a percussion test, where they tap on the tooth to evaluate its sensitivity to pressure. In addition, they may use a cold or heat test to determine how the tooth responds to temperature changes.
When is Endotesting Necessary?
Endotesting is typically done after a root canal treatment has been completed. Your dentist will determine how often you need endotesting based on your individual situation, but it is generally recommended to have endotesting done annually to ensure the tooth is still healthy and functioning properly.
Endotesting is a valuable diagnostic tool that can help detect any problems or issues with a root canal treatment early on, and ensure successful treatment outcomes. At Cascade Endodontics, we offer endotesting for dead teeth to ensure your dental health is preserved. If you think you may require root canal treatment or need to have your previously treated teeth endotested, we would be happy to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.