Endodontics otherwise known as Root canal treatment is used when a dentist has to remove the dental pulp (blood vessels and nerve in tooth) because either the tooth has severe decay or has been knocked or fractured. If untreated an abscess can occur resulting in pain, swelling of the face and infection of the jaw bone, antibiotics would be given in these cases and treatment would be postponed for a week. Isolation of the tooth is important during treatment, this is done with a rubber sheet called a rubber dam, preventing saliva, blood and bacteria re-entering the tooth. The pulp is accessed through the top of the tooth and removed, the remaining root canal(s) are then enlarged, disinfected and then filled. The tooth may then be restored with a filling.

In some cases a root filled tooth may darken, a result of the tooth being knocked.

Root canal treatment (also called a root canal) is done when decay will likely damage or has already killed a tooth. During a root canal, a dentist or endodontist removes the pulp from the center of a tooth and fills the pulp cavity. This can prevent the development of a painful infection in the pulp that may spread to other teeth. A root canal can also treat an infection that has developed into an abscessed tooth. This procedure can relieve toothache, stop infection, and promote healing.

A root canal is needed when tooth decay is likely to cause permanent damage to the pulp or has already done so.

A root canal removes the pulp inside the tooth and replaces it with filling material. It can effectively treat or prevent an infection.

If you have an infected tooth, bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and cause infections in other parts of the body. People who have a difficult time fighting off infections may need to take antibiotics before and after a root canal. Such people include those who have artificial heart valves or were born with heart defects.

Because a root canal removes the pulp inside the tooth, the tooth becomes more fragile and may break more easily if it is not covered with a crown or cap.

A root canal needs to be done as soon as possible to avoid a severe infection, which can damage the bone surrounding the root of the tooth and infect other teeth.

If you have a severely decayed or infected tooth, you may not want to go through the expense and discomfort of a root canal and crown fitting. Instead, you may choose to have the tooth removed (extracted) and the space left open or restored with a fixed or removable bridge.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic Dentistry

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