Endodontics is the treatment of diseased or infected dental pulp
Endodontics treatment is more commonly known as root canal therapy and it’s the treatment of dental pulp that is diseased or has become infected. It involves removing the infected pulp from a tooth in order to stop the pain and also save the tooth from extraction. Endodontic treatment helps you maintain your natural smile and limits the need for ongoing dental work.
What is dental pulp?
Dental pulp is the soft tissue in the centre of the tooth that contains living connective tissue and cells. The tooth pulp is the most important part of the tooth and originates in the centre of the tooth underneath the enamel and dentin layer in the pulp chamber.
The pulp chamber varies in size based on the tooth itself. The pulp is also known as the nerve and it divides out and continues down each root through the canals of the tooth and stops just before the tip.
Why do I need Endodontic treatment?
When a tooth’s pulp is damaged, it breaks down and bacteria begin to grow within the pulp chamber. The bacteria and other decayed debris can cause an infection or an abscessed tooth and an infection in the root canal of the tooth can cause:
- Swelling that could spread to the face, neck and jaw
- Persistent throbbing and pain
- Fever
- Sensitivity when chewing
- Bone loss in the jaw around the tooth
What happens during an Endodontic treatment?
Treatment will depend on the severity of the infection and degree of inflammation but generally all endodontic treatments follow these steps:
Step 1.
Local anesthesia is given to numb the area and prevent any pain.
Step 2.
The infected tooth will be isolated via a sheet which allows the treatment to be carried out in a sterile environment.
Step 3.
A small hole is drilled through the surface of the affected tooth, allowing access to the pulp chamber and root canals for treatment.
Step 4.
The dead and diseased pulp tissue is removed from the tooth and the canals are disinfected with antiseptic and antibacterial solutions. This is not painful as the area is still numb and the tissue being removed is dead or dying.
Step 5.
Root canal fillings will be placed into the freshly cleaned canals and an antibiotic may be prescribed to treat or prevent infection. The after effects of this treatment are minimal and discomfort only generally last a few days. Soreness can usually be managed by over the counter pain killers.
Step 6.
Your second visit to the dentist means it’s time for a permanent restoration and generally, a dental crown is placed over the treated tooth to strengthen and protect it.
Why Endodontic treatment from Redlands Gentle Dental Care might be the answer?
In some cases the tooth may die and become infected without any painful symptoms, that’s why it’s important to book in for regular check-ups and cleans. If you are suffering from any of the above symptoms or think that something might not be quite right with your teeth, book in to see us so we can assess your situation.
To find out more about Endodontic treatment or to request an appointment with Redlands Gentle Dental Care, please contact us today.
