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no 1 graphicFrequently Asked Questions

 

The staff at Lake Cumberland Endodontics have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions we receive. If you need additional information or have additional questions, please contact us at info@lcendo.com.

Why does my tooth require Root Canal treatment?

Your body has a great immune system and it wants to keep you healthy. When bacteria enter the pulp through gateways created by decay, trauma, repeated restorative procedures and cracks, the dental pulp comprised of blood vessels, nerves, connective tissue and a material called ground substance, can become irreversibly damaged. Your body sends in white blood cells and other elements of the immune system to fight off this bacterial invasion. Often this combination of events, introduction of bacteria to the pulp and the resulting challenge to the immune system, damages the area of the bone adjacent to the end of the root. The tooth might hurt when you chew, and it may also hurt when you eat or drink hot or cold food and beverages. This condition is treatable with endodontic treatment and restorative procedures. If left untreated this can become the source of the classic “abscessed tooth."

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What is an Endododontist?

An endodontist is a dentist who has completed dental school and has graduated from a two or three year residency program that includes advanced training in root canal therapy, endodontic surgery, endodontic retreatment and more. To help alleviate pain, an endodontist performs root canal therapy and other endodontic procedures. Because the endodontist is a specialist, his practice is devoted solely to endodontic services. Both Dr. Burkett and Dr. Cheuvront have recieved this advanced training and are qualified endodontists.

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Are Dr. Burkett and Dr. Cheuvront Board Certified?

Drs. Burkett and Cheuvront are Board Certified and are Diplomates of the American Board of Endodontics. This ensures the highest quality of care for patients and demonstrates an exemplary level of knowledge, understanding, and clinical expertise in endodontics.

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How is a Board Certified Endodontist different from a regular endodontist?

All endodontists have completed dental school and are graduated from a two or three year residency program that includes advanced training in root canal therapy, endodontic surgery, endodontic retreatment and more. Because an endodontist is a specialist, only endodontic services are provided in the practice; a few endodontists complete an additional rigorous process that culminates in a day-long written test, case presentations, and an oral exam before the American Board of Endodontics to achieve Board Certification. 19% of all Endodontists worldwide have achieved Diplomate status and are certified to be the best in their field.

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Why can't my own Doctor do my Root Canal?

He or she could. All dentists are required to complete a few endodontic cases in dental school; however, because an endodontist has a significant amount of advanced training and works in this area alone he oe she has a lot more experience with routine and complicated endodontic cases than most dentists. Your doctor wants the best endodontic treatment for you and that is why he or she has referred you to an endodontic specialist; Lake Cumberland Endodontics is here to provide that service.

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Will it hurt?

Thanks to modern anesthetics and techniques, no, probably not. Because of Dr. Burkett’s & Dr. Cheuvront's training and experience, the procedures are completed quickly, correctly, and most patients say they are surprised at how comfortable they remain during and after the procedures.

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Why should I spend this much money on a tooth that doesn't even show?

Nothing is as good as your natural teeth for chewing food or for dental hygiene. Many people are living longer today and needing to use their teeth longer. With proper care and expert treatment when needed, natural teeth can last a lifetime.

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Will I be put to sleep?

No. The Doctors will use a local anesthetic to numb the area where the treatment will occur. The tooth will remain numb during the procedure and then return to normal after the treatment is complete.

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