Endodontics
What is endodontics?
Endodontics is the part of dentistry involved with the diagnosis and treatment of problems involving the pulp at the centre of the tooth, also often referred to as root canal treatment.
X-rays showing root canal treatment
What is Root Canal Treatment?
At the centre of each tooth is tissue called the pulp which is involved in the development of the tooth and to an extent with the perception of sensation of the fully formed tooth.
If this pulp tissue becomes infected it can cause sensitivity, pain and ultimately an abscess and it then becomes necessary to remove the pulp and the associated infection. This process is Root Canal Treatment.
What does it involve?
The pulp is located in a chamber at the centre of the tooth and in canals running in the roots. If the pulp becomes irreversibly inflamed or infected it is necessary to remove it, clean and shape the pulp chamber and the canals and fill up the resulting space. This is carried out through a small hole made in the top of the tooth (or filling or crown) although sometimes it is necessary to remove any existing restoration from the tooth.
Once the canals have been cleaned, shaped and filled it is necessary to fill the access cavity and where necessary to eventually place a new crown or bridge.
An x-ray will need to be taken at the beginning and end of treatment to ensure that it has been carried out as well as possible.
It is good practice to review the root filling after a period of time, usually 6 or 12 months. We ideally like to carry this out, but if it is more convenient it can be done by your referring dentist.
As a nervous patient I found Dr Sunnucks full explanations of procedures very reassuring. He was constantly active in assuring that I was as comfortable as possible. I found his calm manner very helpful.
A Warren 2010
FAQs
How long does it take?
Root canal treatment can often be carried out in single appointment, the length of which depends on many factors, such as the position of the tooth, the number of roots and any complicating factors (such as the presence of posts, retained instruments and blocked or very curved canals) If there is involved infection, or if the tooth requires more complex treatment it may need to be carried out over 2 or rarely more visits.
Appointments are generally between 1 and 2 hours but this can be discussed before the appointment is booked.
How successful is root canal treatment and how long is the tooth likely to last?
Root canal treatment is generally very successful (in the region of 90-95%) but there are several factors which affect this. Success rates are reduced when the tooth has been previously root filled and this has failed as well as when there is marked infection associated with the tooth.
If root canal treatment is successful the tooth can last indefinitely although it is very important that the tooth is properly restored afterwards (often this requires the tooth to be crowned)
How much does treatment cost?
The cost of endodontic treatment varies depending on the position of the tooth, whether it is the first time that endodontic treatment has been carried out on a tooth and other complicating factors such as the presence of posts and possibly fractured instruments.
The tooth will be assessed before treatment is carried out and an estimate of the cost of treatment given to the patient.
For a rough idea of the fee involved Dr Sunnucks is happy to discuss cases beforehand and is happy to be emailed about specific questions
Is there anything else I need to know?
You may well have other questions and if so do not hesitate to ask your dentist, endodontist or any member of the practice staff who will be more than happy to help.
Each case is different and we will do all we can to achieve a successful result as well as to make the experience as pleasant as possible.
