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About Tom Massarat, DDS, MS

Tom Massarat DDS, MS is a Diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics. Dr. Massarat received his Certificate in Endodontics from Northwestern University in 1992. He also received his Dental Degree and Advanced General Dentistry Degree from Northwestern University in Chicago, Ill. Dr. Massarat is a member of the American Dental Association (ADA), American Association of Endodontists (AAE), San Diego County Dental Society (SDCDS) and American Board of Endodontists (ABE). He is also an advisor for the Experdent and Summit Study Groups. He has lectured extensively on many aspect of endodontics.

Author Archive | Tom Massarat, DDS, MS

Young Woman with Infected Tooth

Do You Have An Infected Tooth?

Symptoms of an Infected Tooth And what can I do to relieve the pain? What is an infected tooth? A tooth might appear to be a hard, lifeless bone; however, that is just the surface. Underneath the outer layers of enamel and dentin are living nerves and blood vessels. Collectively, this area of the tooth […]

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Man Happy After Root Canal

Debunking Root Canal Fear

The Root Canal Has Come A Long Way! Why There’s No Need to Be Nervous About a Root Canal Root canal. Just the mention of this dental procedure can make many people shudder with anxiety. It’s no secret that root canals have gained an undeserved reputation for being painful and intimidating. However, we’re here to […]

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Senior Man with Toothache

Have A Toothache?

If You Have a Toothache Get treatment ASAP. Toothaches can be unpredictable. Onset may be sudden, or perhaps you’ve been living with pain over an extended period. Either way, the only way to treat the condition is by seeking help from a dentist. Despite the possibility of using painkillers, other medicines, or even at-home remedies, […]

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Internal Whitening Shade Guide

What Is Internal Whitening?

Most people are familiar with teeth whitening, a quick and convenient method to lighten the color of teeth and improve their appearance. However, a less well-known whitening procedure (used only in particular circumstances) is called internal bleaching, or internal whitening. When is Internal Whitening Used? Internal whitening is just for a single tooth, typically one […]

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Woman Experiencing Dental Emergency

Treat Dental Emergencies Quickly

When patients experience dental emergencies, it’s essential to treat the problem quickly. Without treatment, the infection can spread to other areas and cause further damage. Especially if you have a severe toothache that may need a root canal—identify and address the emergency in a timely manner. Untreated Root Canal Emergencies If a person does not […]

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Types of Human Teeth

Root Canals As Varied As Your Teeth

Can All Teeth Be Treated with Root Canals? A root canal is a dental procedure that removes infected or damaged tissue inside the tooth. The process is always similar; however, there are some variations in how we perform root canals on different types of teeth. Molars: Molars are the large teeth in the back of […]

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Happy Man After Root Canal

Root Canal, From Start to Finish

What To Know Before, During, And After A Root Canal What are the warning signs of infection? If you experience any of these symptoms, please contact us today to schedule an appointment. A tooth infection can be serious and require root canal treatment, as well as antibiotics. Warning signs of tooth infection can include: Severe […]

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Woman Who Needs An Endodontist

Why See An Endodontist?

When You Should Choose An Endodontist And why can’t I see my regular dentist? If you have a toothache and need a root canal, then you have some options available to you. You might receive treatment at your regular dentist’s office, or they may recommend a referral to see an endodontist. Endodontists are dental specialists […]

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Gutta-Percha Root Canal Points

What Is Gutta-Percha?

And What Is Gutta-Percha Used For? Everything you want to know about this miraculous material! What does a tree native to the tropical islands of southeast Asia have to do with dentistry? Quite a lot, actually… Due to its unique properties, gutta-percha has become a staple in dentistry—first used over 150 years ago! A naturally-occurring […]

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Tooth Decay Stages

Tooth Decay Stages

How Does Tooth Decay Happen? What to know to keep your smile happy and healthy! Tooth decay isn’t something that happens overnight—it occurs in stages. And the especially bad part is that once this process starts, it’s all but impossible to stop without intervention by a dentist! Initial caries A cavity’s beginning stages (often called […]

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