Endodontics, often referred to as "nerve removal", is a dental procedure aimed at treating the root canals of the tooth. Root canals are structures located inside teeth. Their number depends on the number of roots, although each tooth has at least as many canals as it has roots. However, it is a very common phenomenon that the number of canals exceeds the number of roots. So what are root canals for? They contain the dental pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue – structures that ensure the nutrition of the tooth. In cases where the dental pulp is damaged or infected and no longer fulfills
its function, it is necessary to undergo endodontic treatment.
When to perform endodontics?
Endodontics is indicated in the following situations:
Deep tooth decay: When the tooth decay goes all the way to the pulp and causes it to become inflamed or infected.
Deep fillings (deep fillings): In some cases, when a deep filling is located in a tooth, it can cause irritation and subsequently irreversible damage to the dental pulp
Cracked or injured tooth: Physical damage to the tooth that results in exposure or damage to the pulp.
Abscess or infection: If the infection spreads to the area around the root of the tooth, a painful abscess may form.
Advantages and disadvantages of endodontics:
Like any dental procedure, endodontics (nerve removal) has certain advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of endodontics:
Preservation of the tooth : The main advantage of endodontic treatment is the possibility of preserving the natural tooth, which is always better than its extraction.
Pain relief : Endodontics effectively removes pain caused by infection or inflammation of the pulp.
Restoring the functionality of the tooth : After successful endodontic treatment and placement of a suitable filling or crown, the tooth can fully function and look natural.
Prevention of further complications : By treating the infected marrow, the spread of the infection to the surrounding tissue and bones is prevented.
Disadvantages of endodontics:
Complexity of the procedure : Endodontic treatment is technically demanding and requires an experienced specialist. Unsuccessful treatment may lead to the need for repeated treatment (reendodontics) or tooth extraction.
Costs : Endodontic treatment can be financially demanding, especially if follow-up treatment with a crown is required.
Risk of re-infection : Even after successful treatment, re-infection can occur, which may require further interventions.
Tooth fragility : After pulp removal, the tooth may lose its elasticity and become more fragile, which may require additional protective measures, such as crowning the tooth.
Endodontic treatment procedure:
Diagnosis and preparation: Includes x-ray examination of the tooth to assess the extent of damage.
Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is used to numb the affected tooth and surrounding tissues.
Tooth opening: An opening is made in the surface of the tooth to allow access to the pulp and root canals.
Cleaning and shaping: The dental pulp and infected tissues are removed, then the root canals are cleaned and shaped using special tools.
Filling: The cleaned root canals are filled with a biocompatible material (gutta-percha) and the hole in the tooth is closed with a temporary filling.
Finishing: During the next visit, the tooth is permanently closed with a filling or crown, restoring its full functionality and appearance.
Endodontics is necessary to preserve the health and functionality of the teeth in cases where there has been serious damage or infection of the dental pulp. Thanks to advanced technologies and the expertise of dentists, it is possible to solve these problems effectively and prevent further complications.
Author of the article: MDDr. Laura Hantke Lukáčová
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