Endodontics
What is Endodontics?
Endodontics, also known as root canal treatment, is a procedure that removes damaged or infected dental pulp to clean and disinfect the tooth canal, preventing the spread of bacteria.
It is primarily performed due to deep decay, although it may also be necessary because of trauma, fractures, or dental wear. Common symptoms include severe pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, inflammation, and discomfort when chewing.
Types of Endodontic
Endodoncia unirradicular
This procedure is performed on teeth that have only one root or canal. These are typically the incisors and canines.
Endodoncia birradicular
This procedure is performed on teeth with two canals, such as the lower premolars or the second upper premolars.
Endodoncia multirradicular
This procedure is performed on teeth with three or more canals, such as the upper and lower molars.
What is dental pulp and why does it become inflamed or infected?
The pulp is the soft tissue inside your tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels, providing essential nutrition. It can become infected for the following reasons:
- Deep decay, where bacteria reach this tissue and cause an infection.
- A fractured tooth or molar, where the crack reaches the nerve, leaving it exposed to the oral cavity and contaminated by bacteria.
- A severe injury or impact to the tooth. In these cases, the nerve dies due to the trauma; once the tissue is non-vital, it begins to decompose and becomes infected with bacteria. Therefore, it must be removed and cleaned to prevent more severe infections in the future.
How to Care for Your Tooth After a Root Canal
Since the treatment involves the dental pulp or nerve—the component that keeps the tooth alive—removing it leaves the tooth brittle and susceptible to fracture. Therefore, it is ideal to protect it with a porcelain restoration, such as a crown or an inlay/onlay, depending on the specialist's assessment. Only in rare cases is a simple filling used, as it increases the risk of fracture and potential tooth loss.