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Endodontics is the branch of dentistry that deals with diseases of the tooth's pulp, which is located in the center of the tooth and in canals (called root canals) within each tooth root. pulp, consisting of connective tissue, nerves and blood vessels, nourishes the tooth when it first erupts. Once the tooth matures, the pulp can be removed safely from the pulp chamber and root canals and the tooth can be maintained. This is because the tooth also is nourished by a blood supply that surrounds the tooth. Removing the pulp is called endodontic treatment, but it is often referred to as root canal treatment or root canal therapy. Many people refer to this as "having a root canal (treatment)."
Why undergo root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment is necessary when the pulp, the soft tissue inside the root canal, becomes inflamed or infected. The inflammation or infection can have a variety of causes: deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or a crack or chip in the tooth. In addition, an injury to a tooth may cause pulp damage even if the tooth has no visible chips or cracks. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess. If an infected or injured tooth that needs root canal treatment is ignored, not only can you lose the tooth, but also the infection can spread to other parts of your body.
What are the symptoms of pulp damage?
There are several common symptoms of pulp nerve damage. Each individual may experience the symptoms differently. Signs to look for include pain, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, tenderness to touch and chewing, discoloration of the tooth, and swelling, drainage and tenderness in the lymph nodes as well as nearby bone and gingival tissues. Sometimes, however, there are no symptoms.
What does the treatment involve?
Treatment often involves from one to three visits to our dentists. They will remove the diseased pulp during the treatment. The pulp chamber and root canal(s) of the tooth are then cleaned and sealed. To determine whether your tooth needs root canal treatment, our dentists will place hot or cold substances against the tooth, feel surrounding tissues and gently tap on the tooth. We will also take X-rays.
Is the procedure painful?
In most cases, you will not experience any pain during the root canal procedure. Our dentists will completely numb your tooth and the surrounding area. Some people fear the anesthetic injections more than the procedure itself, but numbing gels and modern injection systems have made injections virtually painless. In addition to anesthetic, you may receive sedation, such as nitrous oxide.
How much will the procedure cost?
The cost varies depending on how complex the problem is and which tooth is affected. Molars are more difficult to treat, the fee is usually more. Most dental insurance policies provide some coverage for endodontic treatment.
How long will the restored tooth last?
Your restored tooth could last a lifetime assuming you continue to care for your teeth and gums. Regular checkups will be necessary. Your tooth will remain healthy as long as the root(s) of a treated tooth are nourished by the tissues around it. |
1. An opening is made through the crown of the tooth.
2. An opening is made through the crown of the tooth into the pulp chamber.
3. The pulp is then removed. The root canal(s) is cleaned and shaped to a form that can be filled.
4. The pulp is removed and the root canals are cleaned, enlarged and shaped.
5. Medications may be put in the pulp chamber and root canal(s) to help get rid of bacteria and prevent infection.
6. A temporary filling will be placed in the crown opening to protect the tooth between dental visits. You might also be given medicine to help control infection that may have spread beyond the tooth.
7. The pulp chamber and root canals are filled and sealed.
8. The temporary filling is removed and the pulp chamber and root canal(s) are cleaned and filled.
9. The final step usually involves a crown placed over the tooth. The instruments and we use in root canal treatment are latest technology, designed to provide optimal results while reducing the time you have to spend in the dental chair. |