Endodontics in dental surgery: saving teeth from the inside
Endodontics is a branch of dental surgery that is often overlooked, but it plays an essential role in saving severely damaged or infected teeth. If you've ever heard of “root canal treatment” (or devitalization), you already know a part of endodontics! We are going to see why endodontics is necessary, and how it helps to preserve your teeth.
The word “endodontics” comes from the Greek terms “endo” (inside) and “odonte” (tooth). This dental specialty focuses on the inside of the tooth, more precisely on the dental pulp. Pulp is a soft tissue that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. It is vital for the development of the tooth, but once the tooth is mature it can be removed without affecting the function of the tooth.
Endodontics treats infections, inflammations, and damage to the dental pulp, often through root canal treatment, which involves removing infected pulp, cleaning the inside of the tooth, and sealing it to prevent future infections.
Endodontics is generally required when dental pulp is damaged or infected. This can happen for a number of reasons:
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When cavities are not treated in time, they can progress to the pulp, causing inflammation or infection.
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A strong blow to a tooth, even if it does not cause a visible fracture, can damage the pulp inside.
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Cracks that reach the pulp can allow bacteria to enter, leading to infection.
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Multiple dental treatments on the same tooth can stress the pulp and make it vulnerable to infection.
Symptoms that indicate that endodontic treatment may be needed include severe pain, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, swollen gums, or tooth discoloration.
Endodontic treatment, or root canal treatment, takes place in several stages. Here is an overview of the process:
Pour assurer votre confort, le dentiste ou l'endodontiste (spécialiste en endodontie) administre une anesthésie locale pour engourdir la zone autour de la dent.
An opening is made in the crown of the tooth to access infected or damaged pulp.
La pulpe est soigneusement retirée à l'aide de petits instruments, et les canaux radiculaires sont nettoyés en profondeur pour éliminer toute trace d'infection.
The canals are disinfected and then shaped to prepare the tooth for filling. This process ensures that every nook and cranny of the canals is thoroughly cleaned and ready to be sealed.
Once the canals are clean and dry, they are filled with a special material, called gutta-percha, which seals the canals tightly to prevent further infection.
After treatment, a crown or other type of restoration is often required to protect the treated tooth and restore its shape and function.
The main advantage of endodontics is that it saves a tooth that would otherwise have to be extracted. Keeping your natural teeth is always best because it preserves chewing function, maintains the alignment of other teeth, and avoids the complications associated with extractions.
Other benefits of endodontics include:
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Root canal treatment eliminates infection and inflammation, relieving the severe pain often associated with problems.
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By saving the tooth, you maintain the natural appearance of your smile, without the need for dentures.
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Often cheaper and less complex than alternatives such as extraction followed by an implant or a dental bridge.
After endodontic treatment, it is important to take good care of the treated tooth to ensure its longevity. Here are a few tips:
Follow your dentist's instructions, especially regarding diet until the tooth is completely restored.
Maintain good hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day and using dental floss.
Schedule regular visits to your dentist to monitor the treated tooth and detect any problems that may be present.
With the right care, a tooth treated with endodontics can last a lifetime. However, like any tooth, it can be vulnerable to other problems, such as cavities or gum disease. That is why it is crucial to continue to take care of your teeth and to see your dentist regularly.
Endodontics is a real lifesaver for damaged or infected teeth. By treating the inside of the tooth, this procedure not only relieves pain but also preserves your natural dentition. If your dentist recommends endodontic treatment, don't panic: it's a safe and effective solution to keep your teeth healthy, while avoiding more serious complications in the future.
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