What it is
Endodontics is the branch of dentistry that treats the dental pulp — the tissue rich in nerves and blood vessels that lies inside the tooth, within the root canals. When the pulp becomes inflamed or infected as a result of deep decay, trauma or a crack, root canal treatment (commonly known as “root canal therapy”) removes the diseased tissue, disinfects the canals and seals them, preserving the natural tooth.
When it’s needed
- Spontaneous or throbbing pain, especially at night, or intense pain in response to hot and cold.
- Deep decay that has reached the pulp.
- An abscess or swelling, a sign that infection has spread to the root.
- Trauma that has damaged the nerve of the tooth.
- Retreatment of a previous root canal that was unsuccessful.
How we treat it
- Diagnosis. Intraoral X-rays to assess the length and anatomy of the canals and the extent of the infection.
- Anaesthesia and isolation. The treatment is carried out under local anaesthetic and with a rubber dam, which isolates the tooth, keeps the field sterile and protects the airway.
- Cleaning and shaping of the canals. Using rotary nickel-titanium endodontic instruments and an electronic apex locator, we clean and shape the canals precisely, measuring their length electronically; irrigation with disinfectant solutions eliminates bacteria.
- Filling the canals. The canals are sealed three-dimensionally with gutta-percha and endodontic sealer to prevent reinfection.
- Restoration. The tooth is rebuilt with a filling or, when badly compromised, with a crown that protects it from fracture.
Benefits
- Save the natural tooth rather than extracting it.
- Relieve the pain and the infection.
- Chew again without discomfort.
- Prevent the infection from spreading to the surrounding tissues.
FAQ
Is root canal treatment painful?
It is carried out under local anaesthetic, so you feel no pain during the treatment. Mild tenderness in the following days is normal and can be managed with ordinary painkillers.
How many appointments are needed?
In most cases one or two appointments, depending on the complexity of the anatomy and whether infection is present.
Does a root-treated tooth last over time?
Yes, if it is well restored and protected — often with a crown. A root-treated tooth becomes more brittle, so a proper restoration is essential.
Is a crown always needed afterwards?
Not always, but on back teeth and heavily broken-down teeth it is often recommended to prevent fractures.