ENDODONTICS
This is the aspect of dentistry that deals with maintenance of the teeth through endodontic therapy involving the soft inner tissue of the teeth, known as the ‘pulp’.
Endodontics
Procedure
At the first visit, an opening is made into the crown of the carious tooth. The pulp is removed from the pulp chamber and root canals with use of specialised instruments called endodontic files, the canals are then properly cleaned and irrigated. An intracanal medicament is placed and access cavity sealed temporarily.
At the next visit, after eliminating all infection, the root canals are filled with a permanent restorative material and the access opening covered with a permanent crown.
In many cases, a crown is placed on the tooth to preserve its structure.
Indication:
Deep tooth cavities
Severe dentinal hypersensitivity
Irreparable pulp exposure following tooth fracture
Abscess or fistula in relation to teeth
Tooth discolouration due to pulp necrosis
Intentionally prior to crowns and bridges
Results/Benefits:
Pain relief
No more swelling or symptomatic triggers
No more tooth sensitivity
Gives natural presence of tooth
Preserves bone and occlusion
Protects other tooth from infection and strain