Endodontics
Also known as root canal treatment
What is pulpitis?
Pulpitis is an inflammation of the dental pulp, which is the soft, innermost part of a tooth. The dental pulp contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. Pulpitis often occurs due to untreated cavities, dental trauma, or other conditions that allow bacteria to reach and infect the pulp.
There are two main types of pulpitis:
Reversible Pulpitis: In this early stage, the inflammation can be resolved, and the dental pulp can recover. Reversible pulpitis may cause mild to moderate pain, especially in response to stimuli like hot, cold, or sweet foods. Prompt dental intervention, such as a dental filling, can often resolve reversible pulpitis.
Irreversible Pulpitis: If the inflammation progresses and the dental pulp is severely damaged, irreversible pulpitis occurs. This stage is characterized by intense and continuous pain that may be spontaneous or triggered by stimuli. Irreversible pulpitis typically requires more extensive dental treatment, such as root canal therapy or tooth extraction, to alleviate the pain and address the underlying issue.
Common symptoms of pulpitis include:
Spontaneous tooth pain.
Pain in response to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli.
Swelling of the gums around the affected tooth.
Pain that may radiate to the jaw, ear, or head.
If you suspect you have pulpitis or experience persistent tooth pain, it's crucial to seek prompt dental care.
Endodontics or root canal treatment is necessary when the pulp cannot be saved due to it being irreversibly inflamed or infected.
The root canal treatment process
A root canal procedure is commonly completed over multiple appointments. The following steps are involved in a root canal treatment:
Application of local anesthetic to ensure a pain-free experience.
Placement of a rubber dam to isolate the specific tooth or teeth from the rest of the mouth.
Accessing the dental pulp located in the center of the tooth, extending down the tooth root/s.
Removal of the dental pulp tissue using small metal files and disinfectant.
Filling the disinfected space with a material known as gutta-percha.
Sealing the root canal filling as a protective barrier to prevent bacteria from re-entering the space.
Fixing the crown of the tooth with either a filling or a crown.
Throughout the root canal treatment, dental x-rays play a crucial role and are typically taken before, during, and after the procedure. These x-rays aid the dentist in visualizing the interior of the tooth's root canals, which is not visible to the naked eye.
Before
After