Endodontics & Conservative Dentistry

What is Endodontics?

It is a branch of dentistry which deals with pulp tissue in the tooth roots and also tissues surrounding them. Endodontics (Root canal treatment) literally means inside the tooth and is concerned with the disinfection of infected pulp tissue within the tooth roots (Root Canals) and safeguarding the natural tooth.

What is Tooth Pulp?

Dental pulp, the innermost part of the tooth is protected by the enamel, as well as by the dentin, which lies underneath the enamel. This hard casing (enamel and dentin) surrounding the pulp, protects from becoming infected by microbial flora present in the mouth. During the process of tooth decay, this outer cover erodes away to form holes or cavities, not only exposes the dental pulp to these microbes as well as to hot and cold temperatures. Since the pulp is rich with nerves and blood vessels, infection of the pulp can lead to sensitivity and also toothache.

What is RCT?

Root Canal Treatment (RCT): RCT is one of the most common procedures for treating the dental pulp in moderate-to-severe cases of tooth decay. During the root canal treatment, after administration of local anaesthesia an endodontist removes infected or injured pulp tissue (inside a tooth) to provide access to the root canal within. Removing inflamed or infected tissue not only relieves tooth pain but also get rids of pathologic microbial flora that could cause further damage (to your tooth and the rest of your body). Then the root canal will be cleaned, shaped(enlarged), disinfected and filled. Then the tooth is sealed to prevent recurrence of infection. A crown may be placed over the tooth to protect the filled tooth from damage.

Depending on various clinical situations, Root Canal Treatment may be conventional / Single sitting / Laser assisted and micro-endodontics (using operating microscope / loupes).

Signs and Symptoms indicating requirement of root canal treatment:

• Deep decay
• Severe pain on chewing food
• Tender gums
• Prolonged sensitivity
• Pimples on the gums
• Cracked tooth

Will there be pain during and after RCT?

With the advanced techniques, equipment and anesthetics, most patients report that they're comfortable during the procedure. For the first few days after treatment, the tooth may feel slight sensitive, especially if there was infection or pain prior to the procedure. This discomfort will be overcome with the prescribed medications.