Endodontics

Root Canal Treatment – Endodontics

Root canal treatment – endodontics generally deals with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases that occur in living tissues such as vessels and nerves in the interior of the tooth. The main purpose of endodontic treatment is to protect natural teeth.

Within the scope of root canal treatment, damage to the dental pulp and surrounding tissues due to causes such as caries, fracture, infection and trauma in the mouth is treated. The endodontic doctor can apply root canal treatment as well as different dental treatments effectively to preserve the vitality of the tooth.

How is Root Canal Treatment – Endodontics – Performed?

Root canal treatment is a dental treatment procedure performed when the pulp, the soft tissue inside a tooth, becomes inflamed or damaged. This procedure involves cleaning, disinfecting, filling and protecting the inside of the tooth. The tooth is saved by eliminating problems that could lead to tooth extraction.

In root canal treatment, X-rays are first taken to see how the roots of the canal are positioned and whether there is any infection in the jawbone.

Before the root canal treatment is started, the mouth and tooth structure are examined in detail and the treatments to be performed are evaluated. During endodontics, local anesthesia is administered to prevent pain during treatments so that people do not feel pain.

• Before the procedure begins, the dentist applies a local anesthetic to numb the tissues surrounding the tooth. This helps prevent pain and discomfort during the procedure.
• The dentist isolates the tooth to ensure that it remains dry and clean during the procedure. A suture or a rubber carboy can be used for this.
• The dentist opens the decayed or deteriorated tissue on the top of the tooth and the tooth’s protective enamel layer. This allows access to the pulp chamber.
• After opening the pulp chamber, the dentist removes the pulp tissue. During this process, the pulp chamber and root canals are cleaned.
• After cleaning, the pulp chamber and root canals are washed with a special disinfectant solution. This step helps to kill the bacteria and control the infection.
• The dentist shapes and expands the root canals with special instruments. This step aims to create a suitable shape for filling the canals.
• Once shaped, the root canals are filled with a special filling material. Usually a rubber-like material called guta percha is used.
• Once the root canal treatment is complete, the upper part of the tooth is temporarily filled. This temporary restoration provides protection while waiting for the tooth to heal.
• After the root canal treatment is complete, the dentist will apply a permanent restoration. This restoration restores the tooth’s function and aesthetics. Porcelain veneers are usually used.

Together with the endodontic specialist, the treatment can be performed painlessly with fully technological facilities. If patients feel severe pain in their teeth before root canal treatment, they may experience sensitivity for 1 or 2 days after treatment, and if you feel pain, you can ask your doctor for help by stating that there is pain.

Root canal treatment relieves pain by preserving the structure of the tooth and helps the tooth to maintain its function. After the procedure, the patient gets rid of the discomfort and pain in the tooth. However, not all root canal treatments are successful and sometimes re-treatment may be necessary. Therefore, it is important to consult an experienced dentist if root canal treatment is to be performed.

In which cases and when is root canal treatment – endodontics – performed?

Root canal treatment may be necessary if there is pain in the teeth or if there is injury that can affect the tooth roots and pulp.

• Root canal treatment may be needed when the pulp of the tooth becomes inflamed due to decay, trauma or gum disease. Inflamed pulp can cause pain, swelling and tenderness.
• If the root or root tips of the tooth have been damaged (for example by decay or fracture), root canal treatment may be necessary.
• If the decay has reached the pulp layer, the pulp may need to be removed and treated.
• If the infection recurs in a tooth that has already undergone root canal treatment, re-treatment or extraction may be necessary. If the pulp is damaged as a result of tooth trauma, root canal treatment may be required.
• If the tooth has symptoms such as persistent pain, sensitivity or swelling and other treatment methods are not effective, root canal treatment may be considered.

Root canal treatment preserves the structure of the tooth and prevents it from receding. The treatment can help relieve pain and maintain the function of the tooth. Without root canal treatment, an infected tooth may need to be extracted, which can lead to missing tooth problems.

The dentist determines the most appropriate treatment option based on the patient’s symptoms and the condition of the tooth. Root canal treatment is an effective procedure that helps save the tooth in most cases.

How Long Does Endodontic Treatment Take?

Endodontic treatment duration is determined according to the dental condition of the patients. The treatment may take a single session or several sessions.

Things to Consider After Root Canal Treatment – Endodontics!

There are some important points to be considered after root canal treatment. Mild pain and discomfort after root canal treatment is normal. You can use the painkillers recommended by your physician regularly. If the pain or discomfort is severe or persists for a long time, contact your dentist immediately.

It is important to pay attention to dental hygiene after root canal treatment. Keep brushing and flossing, but avoid putting too much pressure on the treatment area. Your dentist can guide you on which toothbrush and floss to use.

Your tooth may be temporarily sensitive after root canal treatment. Avoid hot and cold foods and drinks, or consume such foods at room temperature or lukewarm. For the first few days after the procedure, it is important to eat soft foods to avoid putting too much pressure on your tooth. Avoid hard and raw foods.

After the procedure, pay attention to the temporary or permanent restorations placed as a result of root canal treatment as directed by your dentist. Try not to put too much pressure on the restorations. If you know that you are allergic to any medication during or after the procedure, inform your dentist.

After root canal treatment, strictly follow the control appointments set by your dentist. These appointments are important to evaluate the success of the procedure and make adjustments if necessary. If you notice any abnormal symptoms (severe pain, swelling, bleeding, signs of infection, etc.) after the procedure, contact your dentist immediately.

Careful care and proper hygiene practices after root canal treatment can increase the success of the procedure and ensure the longevity of your tooth. When the permanent restoration placed as a result of root canal treatment is completed, your tooth will regain its normal function and be aesthetically improved.