Root Canal Treatment ( Endodontics )
Endodontics is the branch of dentistry that provides treatment and protection of the soft tissues (pulp) inside the tooth. Endodontic treatment, also known as root canal treatment , is the process of removing and cleaning infected or damaged tissue and nerves inside the tooth. This treatment protects the tooth and prevents tooth loss.
The basic elements and process of root canal treatment are:
- Diagnosis : The endodontist or general dentist takes x-rays and examination to determine damage or infection on the inside of the tooth.
Anesthesia and Access : Before the treatment begins, local anesthesia is applied to the patient and a protection cover is placed on the tooth. Afterwards, the upper part of the tooth (crown) is opened and the inner part of the tooth is reached.
Pulp Removal : The soft tissue (pulp) inside the tooth and infected or damaged nerves are carefully removed.
Cleaning and Shaping of Root Canals : The root canals inside the tooth are cleaned, shaped and sterilized with special tools. This step ensures thatbacteria and infected tissues inside the channels are completely cleaned.
Application of Filling Material : The cleaned and shaped root canals are filled and closed with special filling material. This prevents the infection from entering again.
Crown Restoration : After root canal treatment , the upper part of the tooth (crown) is restored. This is usually done using a filling or dental restoration (such as a crown or bridge ).
The advantages of root canal treatment are:
- Tooth protection: Root canal treatment protects infected or damaged teeth and prevents tooth loss.
- Pain reduction: Pain and discomfort commonly experienced with infected or inflamed teeth can be reduced or eliminated with root canal treatment
- Aesthetics and functionality: Restorations made after root canal treatment can restore the natural appearance and function of the tooth.
However, root canal treatment also has some disadvantages:
- The treatment process can be long and may require several appointments.
- In some cases, root canal treatment may fail and need to be repeated.
- In some cases, due to the complexity of the internal structure of the tooth, root canal treatment may not be possible and tooth extraction may be required.
- In general, root canal treatment is an effective treatment option for cleaning the infection inside the tooth and preserving the tooth.
- However, since every patient and every situation is different, it is important to have a detailed evaluation of treatment options with our Endodontic specialists.
