Exploring endodontic treatment

Endodontic treatment, commonly known as root canal treatment, is a dental procedure that often generates feelings of anxiety for patients due to the misconceptions around what is involves. However, understanding the purpose, process and modern-day advancements in endodontic treatment can alleviate the fears surrounding it and promote better dental health.

What is endodontic treatment?

Endodontic treatment focuses on the interior aspects of the tooth, specifically the pulp chamber and the canals within the roots. The pulp contains nerves, blood vessels and connective tissues. When this area becomes infected or damaged due to dental decay or trauma, endodontic treatment becomes necessary and the only method of saving the tooth to prevent extraction. Without intervention, infection can spread, leading to abscesses, bone loss and further systemic health issues – affecting your overall general health.

What is the process?

1. Our highly experienced and skilled endodontic practitioner will examine the tooth and will conduct special tests such as percussion or thermal testing, to determine if there is damage to the pulp, whether the damage is reversible or irreversible if endodontic treatment is the best option or if other alternative options should be considered.
2. After numbing the area with local anaesthetic, the dentist will create a small opening in the crown (top) of the tooth to access the internal structures.
3. Cleaning and shaping. Specialised instruments are used to remove the infected or damaged pulp tissue and shape the canals to facilitate thorough cleaning and disinfection.
4. Irrigation and medication. The canals are flushed with an antimicrobial solution to eliminate any bacteria and remove debris. In some cases, an antibiotic medication will be placed inside the tooth to aid healing and lower the bacterial load. Sometimes, the tooth will be temporised and left alone for a few weeks to ensure the infection has settled.
5. Filling and sealing. Once the canals are cleaned and dried, they are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha which is then compacted by extreme heat being applied and sealed to prevent recontamination.
6. A filling will be placed over the tooth to restore its function. A few weeks later, the tooth will be reviewed to confirm the success of the treatment. In back teeth the process of constructing a crown will then begin. The crown will reinforce the now weakened tooth to prevent breakages and fractures.

Advancements

Innovations in digital imagery, rotary instruments, apex locators and microscopes improve the diagnostic accuracy and treatment efficiency in treatment’s today. In addition to this, bio ceramic materials used today are biocompatible- enhancing the success rate of root canal therapy and promotes tissue regeneration. Our endodontic practitioner utilises modern techniques such as microscope assisted endodontics and ultrasonic irrigation to improve precision and outcomes whilst minimising any potential discomfort for patients.

What are the benefits?

1. Pain relief. Endodontic treatment alleviates the pain associated with toothaches caused from inflamed nerves and dental infections.
2. By removing the infected pulp and internally sealing the root canals, endodontic treatment prevents natural teeth from needing early extraction- maintaining oral health and function. (There is simply nothing better than your own teeth!)
3. Long-term success. At the assessment, your practitioner will provide you with a success rate of the treatment. Teeth with curvatures, blockages or accessory canals may have a lesser survival rate over 10 years. However, a root treated tooth can last many years with proper care and maintenance.
4. Prevention of complications. Addressing dental infections promptly prevents the spread of bacteria to surrounding tissues and creating further systemic health problems.

Endodontic treatment is a vital aspect of dental care that aims to save natural teeth and restore oral health. By understanding the process, advancements and benefits of endodontic therapy patients can approach it with confidence and prioritise their dental wellbeing. Regular check-ups and prompt intervention for dental issues are key to maintaining a healthy smile for life.

Prevention is better than cure!

Here at Inspired Dental Care, we base our practice on the ethos of: prevention is better than cure. We encourage all of our patients to maintain a regular schedule of dental examinations and hygiene treatments, so that dental problems can be prevented or found early. Our practice membership plan covers all of your regular appointments with both the dentist and hygienist and offers benefits ad discounts on our other services. To find out more, please get in touch and a member of our experienced team will assist you in booking.