What is endodontic treatment? Endodontic treatment is the medical term for root canal treatment. Inside the tooth there is a pulp chamber containing nerves and blood vessels. If a tooth has a deep cavity, bacteria can enter it and cause an infection called pulpitis. Sometimes pulpitis can be caused by overheating of the tooth, for example after grinding. This type of toothache is particularly felt at night and reacts to hot and cold. If the infection is not treated, bacteria can spread to the jawbone and cause inflammation around the root of the tooth, which can be painful or chronic. Pulpitis and periodontitis require root canal treatment.
Why do teeth with root canals often need crown protection? Often by the time a patient sees a specialist, the teeth are already severely damaged. Root canal treatment can save the tooth, but the tooth tissue is often so worn that a crown or other protection is needed to strengthen it. Back teeth are very susceptible to damage from biting, so they almost always need protection after root canal treatment.
What is an endodontist? An endodontist is a dentist who specialises in root canal treatment. The specialisation lasts three years.
Why is it better to have root canal treatment performed by an endodontist? Specialists perform root canal treatment under a microscope, which allows them to find all root canals and fill them precisely. If treatment is carried out without a microscope, a canal may be missed, and inflammation may recur. Therefore, it is better to see a specialist straight away.
How long does root canal treatment of a single tooth take? It all depends on whether it is a front or back tooth. First, a consultation is needed to assess the treatment options. The dentist must then decide how many visits are required, sometimes up to three. What is root canal retreatment and why is it more complex than the initial treatment? Sometimes an infection appears under a previously treated tooth years later, requiring new treatment. In this case, it is best to see a specialist directly without a referral.
Why is root canal surgery sometimes necessary? Sometimes, even when treatment is carried out according to the best protocols, it does not produce results. In such cases, root canal surgery may be the only way to save the tooth. The alternative is tooth extraction and implantation.
Why does root canal treatment of front and back teeth cost differently? The price depends on the number of root canals and on whether the treatment is initial or a retreatment.