Endodontics is a field of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of living tissues inside and around the tooth. The basic treatment method of this field is also known as root canal treatment. Dentists who receive specialty training in the relevant field are called endodontist.
What is endodontics? Damage to the relevant dental tissues makes root canal treatment necessary in some cases. For example, caries that are not intervened for a long time can progress and damage the tissues inside the tooth. Caries is one of the main problems in the field of dentistry and different methods are used to treat it. An initial cavity can be stopped with good oral and dental care. However, in advanced caries, root canal treatment or tooth filling is necessary. In more advanced cases, the tooth may need to be extracted.
What is Endodontics?
What does root canal treatment involve? The person who needs this treatment has a very high probability of having a tooth decay problem. The main goal of root canal treatment is to clean the decay and save the tooth. In very advanced cases, fracture of the tooth may occur. In such cases, the tooth is extracted and a new treatment plan is created. Today, there are different treatment methods for missing teeth such as implants, bridges and prostheses. You can plan the most suitable treatment for you with a dentist.
Physical impacts and accidents are another factor that can destroy the vessels and nerves in the pulp. Factors such as damage or inflammation also cause the tooth to lose its vitality over time. In such cases, the person faces the risk of losing their teeth. However, thanks to root canal treatment, the patient can keep their teeth for many years. Thus, a more comfortable and healthy life becomes possible.
What are Endodontic Treatments?
How is root canal treatment performed? This treatment is performed to save the tooth by removing infection, inflammation or decay. First, the condition of the tooth is examined by methods such as panoramic film. Then, the treatment to be applied is decided according to the level of decay or damage. These can be as follows;
- Filling
- Root canal treatment
- Tooth extraction
- Bridge tooth
- Coating
Treating damage to the dental pulp or nearby tissues can prevent tooth loss. How long does root canal treatment take? The treatment is usually completed in 2 to 3 sessions. Each session takes about 1 hour.
“Endodontic Treatment”
How is root canal treatment performed for damage caused by caries? After the infection/decay is cleaned, the tooth root canal is filled with a special material. The procedures are performed under local anesthesia to eliminate or minimize the sensation of pain. As a result of the treatment, the connection between the teeth and the surrounding tissues is cut. This minimizes the risk of a new infection.
As a result of root canal treatment, it is possible to have a “dead” but functional tooth. In this way, the relevant part of the jawbone also continues to function actively. This is important in order to prevent a possible bone resorption situation. In root canal treatment, the tooth can be covered with materials such as metal crowns or porcelain to extend the life of the tooth.