Endodontics

Endodontic treatment is a dental treatment that has to do with dental pulp, the inner sensitive side of the tooth. It is an ideal solution to overcome pain problems after poor oral hygiene or for some other reason.
During the treatment, the dentist removes the inflamed, infected tooth surface inside the tooth by carefully cleaning and preparing the area and then fills the area where the root was in the past. So the root is not exposed and the infection is avoided. Over the years, endodontic treatment has evolved rapidly. So, today it is possible to predict, heal and therefore save a tooth that would have been lost in the past.

The procedure

Initial examination
Initially, the dentist examines the tooth with the help of a microscope to see if endodontic treatment is the most appropriate treatment. X-rays as part of the initial procedure allow a detailed assessment of bone and root structure.

Anesthesia
After anesthesia, an elastic rubber dam is placed to isolate the tooth from the oral environment while also protecting the respiratory tract from accidental ingestion of small instruments.

So the tooth is not infected with saliva, the filling, if there is one, is removed and the nerve inside the pulp is exposed. Pain is non-existent throughout the procedure.

Root cleaning
The dentist removes the responsible nerve and cleans the root of the tooth while at the same time preparing it by giving a conical shape, ideal for filling the root later or on the same day. This stage can be conducted once or repeatedly depending on the tooth’s response to endodontic treatment.

Temporary filling
After a special antiseptic is applied, the tooth is temporarily sealed. A few days are usually enough to complete the endodontic treatment.
Root Filling
Finally, if there is no discomfort, the dentist will place a special filling material inside the root of the tooth which will seal the root permanently. Endodontically treated teeth usually need further protection against fractures because they are not as durable. A crown or an inlay is an ideal long-term option.

Frequently asked questions

How much does endodontic treatment hurt?

The majority of the patients do not hurt at all. You will not feel any discomfort with the use of an anesthetic.

Why do I need a crown after a root canal?

The tooth after endodontic treatment is easy to break compared to any other untreated tooth. The reason is that internally the supporting dentin has been largely removed in order for the root to be cleaned. At the same time, the endodontically treated tooth dehydrates and breaks more easily. A crown therefore protects and shields the tooth from fracture.

What are my options if endodontic treatment becomes infected?

In general, each case is unique, but the following factors are relevant:

The tooth has a poorer prognosis due to failure of the existing endodontic treatment.
Repeat attempts may be successful, but success rates are always lower than the initial endodontic treatment.
Depending on the case, the dentist will suggest the following options:
Repeat treatment.
Extraction and replacement with an implant or a bridge.