Endodontics, commonly known as root canal treatment, is a key branch of dentistry that saves a tooth from extraction. The procedure involves removing the inflamed or infected dental pulp (“nerve”), cleaning and filling the root canals, preventing further infection, and allowing long-term preservation of the natural tooth.
How to Recognize Dental Pulp Inflammation
Pulp inflammation is accompanied by symptoms such as pain and strong sensitivity to hot or cold, and sometimes spontaneous pain occurs, especially at night. The pulp can also be sensitive before the cavity reaches it, due to irritation from nearby decay.
Your dentist will assess the tooth using an examination and X-ray to decide whether root canal treatment is necessary.
How Pulp Inflammation Occurs
If decay is left untreated, bacteria penetrate deep into the tooth and reach the pulp, causing pulpitis – inflammation of the dental nerve. Symptoms include:
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Increased sensitivity to heat and cold
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Spontaneous pain
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Possible facial swelling
Swelling is the body’s reaction to bacteria that have spread from the root into the bone and soft tissues. In such cases, antibiotics may also be required alongside endodontic treatment.
If the inflammation is mild, it can become chronic, forming a granuloma, which often remains symptomless until the inflammation is reactivated.
How Endodontic Treatment Is Performed
There are two treatment approaches:
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Two-step treatment – The pulp chamber is opened, and a medicament is placed to devitalize the nerve after a few days.
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Single-step treatment – Under local anesthesia, the pulp is removed immediately without the need for additional medication.
Teeth may have one or more root canals (depending on their position in the jaw). It is crucial to locate all canals, thoroughly clean and disinfect them to prevent reinfection.
After cleaning, the canals are filled with a special material to block bacterial entry. The final step involves a control X-ray, after which a permanent filling or crown is placed, depending on the tooth’s condition.
Advantages of Modern Endodontics
Thanks to modern mechanical endodontics, root canal treatment is now more precise, faster, and more successful than ever. The risk of reinfection is minimized, and in most cases, 100% tooth healing is achieved. A treated tooth can last for years and serve as a support for a bridge or crown.
Pain During and After Treatment
Mild pain or sensitivity may occur during or after the procedure, but it usually subsides within a few days. Analgesics can help relieve discomfort.
Possible causes of post-treatment pain include:
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Tissue irritation at the root tip during cleaning
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Tissue reaction to canal filling
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Bacterial infiltration if a temporary or permanent filling leaks
In most cases, pain resolves on its own, but if it increases, contacting your dentist is recommended.
Conclusion
Endodontics allows a tooth that would otherwise be lost to remain functional and healthy for many more years. Timely intervention and professional execution are key to success, and modern treatment techniques make the process almost painless and highly effective.
If you experience tooth pain or sensitivity, do not delay your dental check-up! Early diagnosis can make the difference between saving a tooth and extraction.
