You may have heard the term more than once: endodontics, or also called: root canal treatment. This is a specialty within dentistry that deals especially with diseases that affect in the dental pulp.
In this article we want to try to explain what this treatment consists of and what are the symptoms which indicate that a dental structure needs endodontics.
At the Albiol Dental Clinic in Vilanova i la Geltrú we offer a professional, close and reliable Endodontics service.
What is and what is an endodontic for?
An endodontic is a procedure that cleans and seals the ducts of the nerves from the inside of the tooth to prevent possible inflammation or previous infection of the dental pulp from damaging the integrity of the tooth itself.
This treatment is carried out by a endodontist A dental professional who has experience in finding both the possible cause of pain and the treatment. It is a key figure in the oral health of patients.
Layers of teeth to understand endodontics
When it comes to better understanding endodontic treatment, it is necessary to have basic knowledge about the tooth structure itself. A tooth has several layers:
The outer layer composed of one hard layer called tooth enamel. This glaze is, at the same time, supported by a inner layer composed of small tubules called dentin. In its center we find the soft tissue or dental pulp.
This pulp has blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue that is responsible for forming dentin when the tooth develops.
The pulp is nourished by blood vessels that enter through the tip of the root. And although it is important for its own formation, the tooth is also nourished by the tissues that thethey surround, even if it is necessary to extract this dental pulp.
Types of endodontics
The current types of endodontics depend on the dental piece and the number of canals it has:
Uniradicular endodontics
This type of endodontics is practiced on dental structures. with a single conduit and which, as a general rule, only have one root. This is the case of the central, lateral and canine incisors, as well as the first and second premolars of the lower part.
Biradicular endodontics
This type of endodontics is done when the tooth structure has two root canals. For example, the premolars.
Multi-root endodontics
This endodontics is practiced in pieces that have three or more ducts. It is usually the molars.
When is endodontic treatment needed?
Endodontic treatment is performed when the dental pulp is inflamed or infected.
What can cause an infection or inflammation?
The most common causes are cavities, cracks or dental trauma, where tooth discoloration is often observed, which if left untreated can cause infection and the risk of losing the tooth structure.
What symptoms may indicate that endodontics is needed?
On many occasions, our patients come to the consultation with different symptoms that indicate to us that the dental pulp may be affected, although it will always be an x-ray image the one that confirms this suspicion.
Symptoms may include:
- Prolonged sensitivity to cold or heat.
- Sensitivity of the adjacent tooth or gums.
- Discomfort when chewing.
- Presence of cracks.
- Tooth discoloration.
The endodontic process
When the endodontist extracts the damaged pulp and meticulously cleans the canal, the canal system is shaped and finally the space is sealed so that there is no risk of superinfection.
This type of treatment usually lasts for it can go from half an hour to an hour and a half. All depending largely on the number of channels.
In case the affected tooth is infected, it is necessary (in most cases) to make a prior appointment where medication is administered to cure this infection and then, the canals are filled in a second appointment.
Complete the treatment, it is predictable that the dentist will indicate one second or third date to make one permanent reconstruction. An important part of the treatment that will ensure the cleaning of the canal and protect the tooth by restoring its function.
Does an endodontic hurt?
One of the most common questions related to this type of treatment is whether you feel during the process pain. Fortunately, science has advanced to prevent this. Modern painkillers make the endodontic procedure painless. If the problem is detected in time, you will not feel any more “discomfort” than you would feel with a common filling.
In the first days after the treatment, it is possible to feel sensitivity when biting, especially if there is previous inflammation or pain. In these cases, over-the-counter anti-inflammatories are recommended to relieve possible pain. In any case, in a few days the pain or discomfort will go away completely.
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Endodontics in Vilanova i la Geltrú
If you feel discomfort in any dental piece, notice a small abscess in the gum or notice that your tooth has changed color, do not hesitate and make an appointment with us as soon as possible to carry out a treatment according to your needs.
In such cases, The speed with which the treatment is applied is key to ensuring the health of the tooth and avoiding larger problems.
