What is Endodontics?

Endodontics or Root Canal Treatment, is a field of dentistry focused on the internal treatment of the tooth, consisting of pulp or nerve tissue located within fine canals in the roots.

When the nerve tissue within the root canal system is breached by decay or fracture, bacteria are able to enter into this previously insulated space. The result is an inflamed nerve and a condition called Pulpitis. The symptoms of Pulpitis include sensitivity to hot and cold stimuli, or bouts of intense, spontaneous pain.

The Need for Endodontic Treatment

With time, the bacteria travel to the tip of the root where there is a small opening called the Apical Foramen. The bacteria then exit the Apical Foramen and enter the surrounding bone, resulting in a condition known as Apical Periodontitis. This leads to the formation of abscesses, characterised by severe pain and swelling.

The Purpose of Root Canal Treatment

The purpose of a Root Canal Treatment is to prevent or treat Apical Periodontitis. This is achieved by creating a small window in the biting surface of the tooth in order to access the Pulp Chamber. The aim of the treatment is to then remove any and all infected pulp tissue, including the tip of the root, thoroughly disinfect the area, and finally seal off the Root Canal System with a biologically acceptable material.

Depending on the complexity of the treatment, multiple dental visits may be required. An appropriate restoration (usually a crown or onlay), is recommended to ensure that the tooth does not fracture.

If all the aims of the treatment are achieved, pain is relieved, and the body is able to repair the bone around the tip of the root that was damaged by Apical Periodontitis. Completion of this process ensures that we are able to save your natural teeth.

Re-treatment after a previous Root Canal Procedure

Endodontic Re-treatment may be necessary in circumstances where previous treatments have been unsuccessful. Previous Endodontic treatment may have been unsuccessful due to a number of factors, the most common being missed canals and inadequate disinfection and sealing of canals.

These cases are usually more complex than initial treatments, as the previous Root Canal has to be undone, and the challenges overcome, in achieving the ideal goals for Endodontic success.