And When to Seek Endodontic Care A dental abscess is a painful infection around the tooth’s root or gums, often due to untreated decay or injury. Abscesses require immediate attention to avoid complications, as the infection can spread, causing discomfort and health risks. What Is a Dental Abscess? A dental abscess is a pocket of […]
Understanding Pulpitis
Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Endodontic Treatment Tooth pain can be more than just an inconvenience—it could be a sign of a deeper issue, like pulpitis. Pulpitis is the inflammation of the dental pulp, the soft tissue inside your tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. This condition can cause significant discomfort and, if […]
Cracked Teeth & Endodontics
Treating Cracked Teeth To Save Your Smile How Endodontists Can Help Cracked teeth are a common dental issue that can cause significant pain and lead to serious complications if not treated promptly. Endodontists play a vital role in diagnosing and treating these troubled teeth, helping patients avoid tooth loss and restore their oral health. Symptoms […]
Clearing the Root Canal
A Deep Dive into Endodontic Therapy Root canal therapy is a cornerstone of endodontic treatment to save teeth affected by deep decay or infection. A critical step in this procedure is thoroughly cleaning and shaping the root canal system. Clearing the root canal is an intricate process that ensures the removal of all infected tissue […]
Systemic Health & Root Canals
Root canals are widely recognized for relieving dental pain and saving natural teeth. However, they can also play a role in potentially preventing systemic health issues. Oral Health and Systemic Health Oral health is connected to overall health. The mouth can act as a gateway for infections to enter the bloodstream and spread to other […]
Root Canals Can Save Bone Structure
The Connection Between Teeth and Bone Health When most people think about root canals, they focus on the immediate benefits of pain relief and infection control. However, root canal therapy has a lesser-known yet significant advantage that extends beyond saving the tooth itself: preserving the surrounding bone structure. The roots of your teeth anchor into […]
The Evolution of Endodontics
Major Milestones Shaping Dentistry Endodontics is a type of dentistry that focuses on dental pulp and treating related infections. Throughout history, several milestones have shaped this specialized field of dentistry. Beginnings of True Endodontics The 19th century marked a pivotal period in the development of modern endodontics. In 1838, American dentist Edwin Maynard introduced the first […]
Apicoectomy: Root-End Surgery
When traditional root canal therapy isn’t enough to resolve persistent dental issues, endodontists may turn to apicoectomy (also known as root-end surgery) as an alternative treatment option. While less common than standard root canal procedures, apicoectomy is crucial in preserving natural teeth and restoring oral health. What is an Apicoectomy? Apicoectomy is a surgical procedure […]
Healthy Smile, Healthy You!
How A Healthy Smile Impacts Overall Well-Being And How We’re Here to Help! A healthy smile is essential to non-verbal communication, but its impact goes beyond mere expression. As well as the aesthetic benefits, maintaining good dental health has profound implications for overall well-being. Let’s delve into the relationship between dental and general health, highlighting […]
5 Symptoms Of A Root Canal
A Root Canal Doesn’t Really Have Symptoms—It’s The Treatment! But here are indicators you might need a root canal. If you’ve already been diagnosed and told you need a root canal, then congratulations on taking the first step! Otherwise, knowing the symptoms and warning signs can help you seek timely treatment and preserve your dental […]
Tom Massarat DDS, MS
Diplomate of the American Board
of Endodontics
Eastlake Endodontics
2452 Fenton St #303
Chula Vista, CA 91914
(619) 621-5000
Memberships & Associations
