Endodontics
Endodontics
Endodontics is the part of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases or injuries inside the teeth, specifically in the dental pulp and the tissue surrounding the root of the tooth. The dental pulp is an internal part of the tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes infected or damaged due to deep cavities, tooth fractures, trauma, or inflammation, a root canal may be required to save the tooth and relieve the patient’s pain.
This is an effective procedure for saving teeth that might otherwise be lost due to infection or serious injury. It allows the patient to keep their natural tooth instead of extracting it, which is beneficial for chewing and dental aesthetics. The success of a root canal treatment is typically high, with most patients experiencing a significant reduction or elimination of pain after the procedure.
The endodontic procedure, commonly known as “root canal treatment,” involves the following steps:
Diagnosis
The dentist evaluates the patient’s symptoms, such as severe pain in the tooth, sensitivity to heat or cold, swelling or redness of nearby gums, and uses x-rays to determine if the dental pulp is infected or damaged.
Local anesthesia
Before starting treatment, local anesthesia is administered to numb the area and ensure that the patient does not feel pain during the procedure.
Access and cleaning
The dentist creates a small opening in the crown of the tooth to access the dental pulp. The infected or damaged pulp is then removed and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned.
Filling and sealing
After cleaning the inside of the tooth, it is filled with a special material to replace the removed pulp. The tooth is sealed with a sealant material to prevent reinfection.
Restoration
In many cases, a dental crown is placed on the treated tooth to restore its form and function, as root canal-treated teeth can become more brittle over time.
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