Endodontic Treatment and Root Canal Therapy

Painless | Done In One Visit
“Endo” is the Greek word for “inside,” and “odont” means “tooth.” Endodontic treatment focuses on treating the inside of the tooth, with root canal therapy being a common type of this treatment.

To Understanding endodontic treatment involves knowing the anatomy of a tooth. Beneath the enamel and dentin layers lies a soft tissue called the pulp, which extends from the tooth’s crown to the roots, connecting to surrounding tissues. The pulp plays a crucial role in a tooth’s growth and development.

Symptoms and Initial Treatment

Severe throbbing, sharp tooth pain is often caused by an inflamed pulp, an abscess, or a crack that has reached the pulp. This pain may require painkillers. During endodontic treatment, the dentist removes the inflamed or infected pulp after administering local anesthesia, then carefully cleans, shapes, fills, and seals the root canal.

Post-Treatment Restoration

After the root canal is treated, you will return to the dentist for a crown or other restoration to protect and restore the tooth to full function. The treated tooth continues to function like any other tooth.

Patient Comfort and Recovery

Modern techniques and anesthetics ensure most patients are comfortable during the procedure. Post-treatment, your tooth may feel sensitive, especially if there was prior pain or infection. This discomfort is usually manageable with over-the-counter or prescription medications.

Procedure Steps

Initial Examination: The dentist examines the tooth, takes x-rays, and administers local anesthetic.
Isolation and Cleaning: The tooth is isolated with a dental dam. The dentist makes an opening in the crown and uses small instruments, often electric rotary systems, to clean the pulp chamber and shape the root canals.
Filling: The cleaned canals are filled with a biocompatible material, typically gutta-percha, sealed with adhesive cement. A temporary filling is placed to close the opening.

Final Restoration

After the root canal procedure, you must return to the dentist to have a permanent restoration, like a crown, placed on the tooth to protect it. Until then, avoid chewing or biting on the treated tooth to prevent fractures. Good oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups, are essential for maintaining your dental health.

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