Endodontic Treatment and Restoration
Why is restoration needed after endodontic treatment?
The completion of root canal treatment does not indicate the end of the dental procedure. The restoration of endodontically treated teeth has changed in recent years. The endodontically treated tooth needs to be restored to form, function and aesthetics. The quality of the restoration has a direct impact on the existence and success of the endodontically treated tooth.
Restoration after the endodontic treatment reduces the risk of failure of a root canal-treated tooth. A well-executed restoration will return the tooth to form and function and protects the tooth from future breakdown, both non-carious (fracture) and carious.
The preservation of the tooth is critical to the survival of an endodontically treated tooth. Adhesive techniques help preserve rather than remove dentine to provide the basis of long-lasting, aesthetic restorations
What procedures does an endodontist perform?
Endodontic procedures treatment involves the treatment of inner tissues of the teeth, otherwise known as the pulp or nerve. The word “endodontic” is derived from two words: “endo,” which means inside, and “odont,” which means tooth. Every dentist receives professional training on the diagnosis of endodontic procedures, but some teeth can be complicated to treat. This is when an endodontic specialist may be needed. Endodontic procedures in Chula Vista are usually performed to clean out the infection and save the tooth from further breakdown.
Common endodontic procedures
Root canal: The most common endodontic procedure, a root canal is done to save a tooth that would otherwise need to be removed. A root canal is necessary when the pulp, which is the core layer of the tooth, or the canals holding the pulp becomes swollen or infected. The main cause of the infection is deep cavities, repeated dental treatments, fractures or cracks, or injuries.
Apicoectomy (surgical endodontics): Usually, a root canal is enough to protect an inflamed or infected tooth from removal. Though, at times it may not be sufficient to heal the tooth and the tissues around that site. In such cases, a surgical procedure known as apicoectomy is needed to save the tooth.
During the procedure, the dentist will make an incision in the gum tissues to reveal the bone underneath. A tiny opening is made on the top of the bone to expose the infected area. The dentist removes the infected tissue, cleans the root tip, and seals the root with a filling.
Top 5 benefits of endodontic treatment
- Root canal treatment is virtually painless and leaves you with less discomfort during recovery than if you have your natural tooth extracted.
- Tooth extraction can take longer than root canal treatment due to denture, bridge, or implant
- Root canal treatment stops the spread of infection to the other teeth when the bacteria is removed from its cavity. Once the tooth is cleaned, the bacteria is cleared, with a latex substance called gutta-percha used to fill the space of the canal to seal it.
- A root canal allows you to eat and chew as you normally would.
- Tooth extraction is a time taking process that involves several appointments and costs higher.
FAQ
What types of procedures do endodontists do?
- Root canal treatment
- Traumatic dental injuries
- Endodontic retreatment
- Dental implants
- Endodontic surgery