General dentistry

Root canal treatment

Deneral dentistry

Root canal treatment

Root canal treatment or endodontic treatment consists of removing the infected, damaged or necrotic pulp from the tooth, using instruments and disinfectants. Also called devitalization, this process preserves the tooth and avoids extraction. Root canal treatment has a relatively high success rate. This procedure may require one to several visits to the dentist. Depending on the complexity of the case, the patient is sometimes referred to a specialist (an endodontist) to carry out the treatment.

At Anjou Center Dentaire d'Urgence , we work with competent dentists with many years of experience in the field. Do not hesitate to contact us for a consultation.

Root canal treatment

Why does a tooth need root canal treatment ?

In order to fully understand the root canal treatment and its necessity, it is useful to know the dental anatomy. A healthy tooth, as shown in the diagram, is made up of a layer of enamel , dentin and cement . Commonly referred to as the nerve, the pulp (in the center) contains sensory fibers. Thus, regardless of the nature of the stimulus (hot, cold, etc.), the sensory fibers of the pulp transmit pain.

The extirpation of pulp tissue may be required during extensive caries (deep decay reaching the pulp) and when the pulp is irritated by trauma (blow, fracture, etc.). In addition, when the dental substance is insufficient, treatment of canal is necessary to insert a pivot into the canal and thus provide more retention for the restoration. Ideally, for a better long-term success rate, it is best to restore the tooth with a crown following treatment of the endodontium.

For more information on ceramic restorations, refer to the section on CROWN

Root canal treatment is sometimes the only way to save a tooth that is doomed to extraction.

Therefore, root canal treatment is required when:
  • The decay is deep and has reached the dental pulp (where the nerve is located)
  • The tooth is broken and a simple filling is not enough to restore
  • The pulp is irritated by trauma
  • Catering is very important
  • The tooth requires a crown, but which requires the additional support of a pivot
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Root canal treatment

Stages of root canal treatment

After having done the anesthesia, the dentist sets up the dental dam (square of latex) in order to isolate the tooth to be treated. In addition to providing excellent visibility to the dentist, it constitutes an important protection for the patient, because it prevents him from swallowing debris, disinfectant solution or even instruments.

Once the tooth is isolated, the dentist will remove the decay if necessary and open the space that will allow access to the canals. Then, the use of manual and / or rotary (mechanical) files are employed in order to clean with precision, the canals of the tooth along its entire length to the apex (end of the root of the tooth). To complete the disinfection, an antibacterial solution is used to dissolve the organic debris which often remains necrotic.

After cleaning and shaping, the canals will be sealed (closed) with gutta-percha (filling material) and root canal cement.

After root canal treatment

In some cases, a little pain may be felt when touching the tooth. The dentist will prescribe pain relievers and the pain will gradually subside after 72 hours. In the case of a tooth previously infected, swelling may occur, which can be controlled by taking an appropriate antibiotic.

The risks

Any dental treatment involves risks. Among these complications are:

  • Perforation at root level.
  • Apical deviation with or without perforation.
  • Instrument breakage (file) in the canal.
  • Fracture of the tooth that can lead to its loss.
  • Tooth loss and modification of the treatment plan.

In the event of treatment failure

If the infection persists, root canal retreatment or apical surgery may be required to save the tooth. Most of the time, a tooth treated with a root canal can be saved. But sometimes all attempts fail and extraction becomes inevitable. In this case, your dentist will talk to you about the different options for replacing a missing tooth such as an implant, dental bridge or removable partial denture. Do not hesitate to consult our dental professionals for more information.

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