Endodontics is the field of dentistry that treats teeth with inflammation within the pulp, that is the nerve of the tooth. Since the pulp is located inside the tooth, this type of treatment is considered to be complicated because it is often difficult to reach the nerve. Endodontic treatment is commonly referred to as root canal treatment and is the most effective way to prevent tooth extraction.
This branch of conservative dentistry focuses primarily on cleaning tooth canals, disinfecting and widening them if possible, and filling them with a special substance. Thanks to the availability of modern technologies and techniques, it is possible to use a microscope and anesthesia, and devitalization is no longer necessary during the treatment. For the patient, this means less pain and a faster restoration of healthy teeth.
The most common cause of pulp inflammation is dental caries. It should be noted that it can also develop in a way that is invisible to the patient, for example under a filling. In the first stage, the decay penetrates the hard part of the tooth. At this point, a filling will suffice. Unfortunately, in many cases it is too late for such a treatment, because caries reached the soft part of the tooth – the pulp, where inflammation occurs. If left untreated, purulent lesions may develop around the root and the condition will even involve the bone surrounding the tooth. Regular check-ups with our specialists will eliminate the risk of developing such ailments – even inconspicuous ones that do not cause discomfort or pain.
Indications for root canal treatment
Often, a seemingly healthy tooth will require root canal treatment. Changes occurring inside the tooth are not always visible or painful, so only regular check-ups can provide maximum protection against tooth loss. Endodontic treatment is used in the case of an irreversible inflammation of the pulp, large cavities, necrosis of the pulp, and tooth fractures. Root canal treatment may also be necessary before a prosthetic procedure of inserting a bridge or crown. Indications for this method include periapical tissue inflammation and cases where previous treatment was unsuccessful or complications occurred.
The most common complaints associated with pulp diseases include:
- spontaneous toothache without specific cause
- toothache that occurs during chewing or rinsing
- reaction to changes in meal temperature – cold and warm
- swelling
- the color of the infected tooth becoming darker
- In advanced stages, subfebrile temperature
The course of root canal treatment
Root canal treatment must always be preceded by an X-ray. It makes it possible to analyze the anatomical structure of the root, as well as determine the severity of the lesions and the distribution of the canals. The examination helps determine whether the inflammation involves only the inside of the tooth, or it is also present in the bones surrounding the tooth. We use the latest generation of X-ray machines that allow us to take sharp and precise images that help us make the right diagnosis. During the procedure, it is very important to completely eliminate saliva, as it could carry bacteria. To this end, specialists use a special rubber that covers the tooth. A tool that is often used during the treatment is an endometer (Koferdam), which makes it possible measure the length of canals.
Stages of endodontic treatment:
- Based on the X-ray and examination, the specialist determines the course of action
- Bacteria from the pulp, dentin from canal walls and carious lesions are eliminated and canals are prepared with the use of special tools that make it possible to reach those
that are very tortuous and narrow. - Canals are dilated and dried, and then a sealant paste and gutta-percha are inserted. It
provides airtight protection against bacteria - The final stage of treatment is the reconstruction of the tooth crown, which can be
performed using light-cured materials or prostheses.
Microscope in endodontic treatment
The use of the highest quality equipment, its accuracy and broad spectrum of action allows us to carry out treatments faster, which means that patients will feel less pain. What is important, the introduction of the microscope solution gave a chance to obtain effects
permanent and foreseeable. Doctors have gained the ability to perform the procedure with precision to eliminate any mistakes or shortcomings. Working on root canals is complicated by their unconventional structure, which without the use of a microscope could lead to failures. Our clinic uses microscopes that can magnify images up to 20 times while illuminating them. This in turn translates into accurate treatment and avoidance of missing root canals. The device will also work well when retained instruments need to be removed, as well as in difficult disease variants. Our doctors use the microscope in many situations during their daily work, because it increases the quality and comfort of procedures. Patients can be certain that treatment is carried out under good conditions and to the highest standards.
