Root canal treatment to save a damaged tooth
Endodontic treatment is the treatment of the root canals of a tooth, the goal of which is to remove infection from inside the tooth, protect it from further inflammation, and preserve the natural tooth. During the procedure, the canals are cleaned, damaged tissue is removed, and the tooth cavity is filled to prevent future infections.
Endodontic treatment usually takes place in several stages over one or more visits, depending on the condition of the tooth and the complexity of the infection.
1️⃣ First visit. The treatment begins by numbing the tooth with a local anesthetic so that the patient does not feel any pain during the procedure. The tooth is then isolated with a special rubber called a rubber dam, which prevents saliva from entering and maintains sterility. The root canals are opened and mechanically cleaned to remove infected tissue (pulp). During this stage, a medicinal substance with antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties may be injected into the canals. It kills the bacteria causing the infection and soothes the damaged nerve tissue, helping to reduce pain and inflammation. The canal is then temporarily sealed to protect it until the next visit.
2️⃣ Second visit. The doctor removes the temporary filling and assesses whether the infection has been completely eliminated. If everything goes well, the canals are carefully filled with a special biocompatible material called gutta-percha, which ensures airtightness and prevents further infection. Finally, the tooth crown is restored with a filling or prosthesis, thus restoring its natural shape and function.
Modern equipment is used for successful root canal treatment. Modern endodontic treatment is performed using a microscope , which provides the doctor with an accurate and detailed view, helping to reach small and hard-to-reach tooth structures, and ensuring a high-quality and long-lasting result.
Current issues
When is root canal treatment necessary?
Root canal treatment is used when the nerve (pulp) of a tooth is damaged by infection or trauma. This often happens due to deep decay or when a tooth becomes cracked and bacteria reach the root canals. The treatment helps save the tooth and prevent further infection.
What should you know after dental root canal treatment?
After root canal treatment, it is recommended to follow certain care instructions to ensure smooth healing and avoid complications:
Avoid chewing on the treated tooth, especially if it has a temporary filling. This will help protect against possible damage until the permanent filling or denture is placed.
Take pain medication if you experience discomfort. A little pain or tenderness after the procedure is normal, especially if you experienced symptoms of inflammation before the treatment. If the pain is severe or lasts more than a few days, contact your doctor.
Avoid hot or very cold foods and drinks – the tooth may be more sensitive, so it is best to temporarily avoid strong temperature fluctuations.
Monitor the condition of the tooth : If you notice swelling, severe pain, temperature, or other unusual symptoms, contact your dentist as soon as possible.
Maintain good oral hygiene - brush your teeth with a soft brush and remember to use dental floss or other interdental care products daily.
What is secondary endodontic treatment?
Secondary treatment or retreatment is performed when the initial root canal treatment was not completely successful or the infection recurs. During secondary treatment, the canals of the tooth are re-cleaned, infected or improperly filled materials are removed, and the canals are carefully re-sealed to ensure a long-term result.
Are additional procedures necessary after root canal treatment?
In some cases, especially if the tooth structure is weak, a crown may be necessary. Patients also seek internal whitening of endodontically treated teeth, as such teeth tend to darken and are not affected by external whitening.
How is endodontically treated teeth whitening performed?
Root canal treatment sometimes causes tooth discoloration, so an endodontic whitening procedure is recommended. During this procedure, a whitening agent is injected directly into the root of the tooth, lightening the tooth from the inside. The procedure can be repeated every 2-3 days until the desired color is achieved, and for the final result, the tooth is sealed with a permanent filling.
