What is root canal treatment?

Endodontics is the speciality in dentistry concerned with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases or injuries to the dental pulp. The pulp, which some people call the “nerve”, is the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels and is responsible for tooth development. Root canal treatment is a safe and effective means of saving teeth, which would otherwise be lost.

Why is root canal treatment needed?

If the pulp becomes infected, the infection may spread through the root canal system of the tooth. This may eventually lead to an abscess. An abscess is an inflamed area in which pus collects and can cause swelling of the tissues around the tooth. The symptoms of an abscess can range from a dull ache to severe pain, and the tooth may be tender when you bite. If root canal treatment is not carried out, the infection will spread and the tooth may need to be taken out.

What does root canal treatment involve?

Treatment may require one to three appointments, depending on the diagnosis, the number of roots and the complexity of the case. During the appointments, the clinician removes the injured or diseased pulp tissue. The root canals are cleaned, shaped and sealed to prevent recontamination.

What is the success rate of root canal treatment?

Endodontics is one of the few procedures in dentistry that has a predictable prognosis if treatment is performed correctly. Studies indicate that 90% of treatments are successful. However, prognosis may vary depending on the specifics of each case. Good oral hygiene and a sound restoration after each case are also essential to prevent treatment failure. Long term follow-up is also required to monitor healing.

“Nothing is as good as your natural tooth! ” Saving your natural tooth should always be your first choice when dental care is needed. Nothing, not even the most advanced bridges and implants, can truly replace your natural tooth.

In our practice, we use a Surgical Microscope. It provides enhanced visualisation of the endodontic access or surgical area up to 25 times. This is especially beneficial for accurate visualisation of complex anatomy cases, for locating root fractures or defects, for root-end surgery, for removal of separated instruments, and for locating canals.