When your tooth suffers internal damage from an injury, infection, or other trauma, specialized care becomes essential for preserving your natural tooth structure. Internal tooth trauma affects the dental pulp, or the soft tissue inside your tooth containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue, and requires expert attention from an endodontist, a dental specialist specifically trained in treating issues affecting the inside of teeth.
At Burien Endodontics, we specialize in diagnosing and treating internal tooth trauma using advanced techniques and technology. Our goal is always to preserve your natural teeth whenever possible, providing targeted treatment that addresses the specific nature of your dental injury.
Diagnosing Internal Tooth Trauma
At Burien Endodontics, our approach to treating internal tooth trauma begins with a comprehensive examination to accurately diagnose the extent and nature of the damage. Using advanced diagnostic tools, we develop a clear picture of what’s happening inside your tooth.
Our diagnostic process typically includes the following steps:
- A detailed discussion of your symptoms and dental history
- Comprehensive examination of the affected tooth and surrounding tissues
- Digital radiographic imaging to visualize internal structures
- CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) scanning for three-dimensional views of the tooth’s internal structure when needed
These advanced imaging techniques allow us to identify the precise location and extent of internal damage, enabling us to develop the most effective treatment plan for your unique situation.
Treatment Options for Internal Tooth Trauma
When it comes to internal tooth trauma cases, your treatment plan should be as unique as you are! There are several different avenues we can take to help treat your tooth trauma. These include the following:
Non-Surgical Root Canal Therapy
For most cases of internal tooth trauma, non-surgical root canal therapy is the primary treatment option. This procedure involves:
- Removing the damaged or infected pulp tissue
- Thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the root canal system
- Shaping the canal space to receive a biocompatible filling material
- Sealing the canals to prevent future infection
At Burien Endodontics, we use advanced techniques and laser technology to ensure thorough disinfection of the canal system, significantly improving the long-term success rate of the treatment. Most root canal procedures can be completed in one or two visits, depending on the complexity of the case.
Apexogenesis and Apexification
For younger patients with immature teeth that have experienced trauma, specialized procedures called apexogenesis or apexification may be necessary. These treatments aim to accomplish the following:
- Preserve the vitality of the pulp when possible
- Allow continued root development in immature teeth
- Create a calcified barrier at the root end to facilitate proper sealing
These specialized procedures require careful technique and monitoring to ensure proper development of the tooth structure.
Pulp Capping
In cases where the damage to the pulp is minimal and detected early, direct or indirect pulp capping procedures may be employed. These conservative treatments aim to:
- Place a protective material over the exposed or nearly exposed pulp
- Promote the formation of a dentin bridge over the affected area
- Preserve pulp vitality and avoid the need for complete root canal therapy
Pulp capping is most successful when performed promptly after the trauma occurs and when the exposure is small and free of infection.
Apicoectomy
For cases where conventional root canal therapy has been performed but infection persists at the root tip, an apicoectomy may be necessary. During this procedure:
- The endodontist makes a small incision in the gum tissue near the affected tooth
- Removes the infected tissue at the root tip
- Places a small filling to seal the end of the root canal
This specialized surgical procedure addresses persistent infections that cannot be resolved through non-surgical approaches.
We Can Treat Your Internal Tooth Trauma at Burien Endodontics
At Burien Endodontics, we’re committed to providing the highest level of specialized care for patients experiencing internal tooth trauma. With over 14 years of experience, our practice combines advanced technology with compassionate care to deliver treatment that preserves your natural teeth whenever possible. We understand that dental emergencies can’t wait, which is why we offer same-day emergency appointments for patients in acute pain. Our 100% digital patient records ensure seamless coordination with your general dentist for comprehensive care throughout your treatment journey.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of internal tooth trauma or have been referred for endodontic evaluation, contact our office today. Our team is dedicated to relieving your pain and preserving your natural teeth with precise, effective treatment. Don’t let tooth pain affect your quality of life. Contact Burien Endodontics today at (206) 402-5147 or through our contact form to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward restoring your dental health.
