Endodontic treatment, often known as root canal treatment, is a dental treatment used when the inside of the tooth, i.e. the pulp, has become inflamed or infected. This can happen because of deep decay, earlier trauma, extensive wear, a crack in the tooth or previous dental work. The purpose of endodontic treatment is to remove the inflamed or infected tissue from inside the tooth, clean and disinfect the root canals and then seal them appropriately.
In this way, in many cases, extraction can be avoided and the natural tooth kept in the mouth. Root canal treatment is carried out by an external collaborator of our practice, a specialist endodontist, aiming at correct diagnosis, careful management of the case and the best possible prognosis for keeping the tooth. Before treatment begins, the patient is given detailed information about the procedure, the stages of treatment, the prognosis and the possible alternatives.
After root canal treatment is completed, in many cases an appropriate restoration of the tooth is necessary, to protect it from future fractures or further wear. Depending on the condition of the tooth, a simple filling, an onlay or a crown may be needed, to ensure its function, strength and long-term survival in the mouth. Early diagnosis and treatment are particularly important, as a tooth with inflammation or infection can cause pain, sensitivity, swelling or worsening of the damage.
Root canal treatment is an important way of preserving the natural tooth, always after careful clinical and X-ray assessment.
The stages of root canal treatment
Treatment begins with diagnosis: clinical examination, sensitivity tests and an X-ray. Then, under local anaesthesia, the tooth is isolated, a small opening is made and the inflamed pulp is removed. The root canals are cleaned, shaped and disinfected and finally filled with a biocompatible material. Endodontic treatment is carried out by an external collaborator of the practice, a specialist endodontist.
When it is indicated
- severe or spontaneous pain, especially at night,
- pain when chewing,
- prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold,
- swelling of the gums or face, or an abscess,
- a dark tooth after an injury,
- damage that is visible only on an X-ray.
If the tooth cannot be saved, for example because of a root fracture or very extensive destruction, the dentist will explain the alternatives.
Duration and recovery
The number of sessions depends on the tooth, the number of root canals and the infection. Treatment is usually painless thanks to anaesthesia; afterwards there may be temporary sensitivity when chewing, which gradually subsides. Until the final restoration, avoid hard foods on the side of the tooth.
Materials and restoration options
The root canals are filled with a special material that stays inside the tooth. The tooth is closed with a filling and, because a tooth without a nerve is more fragile, a crown or inlay is often recommended to protect it from fracture, particularly in molars.
Why it is worth keeping the natural tooth
When a tooth can be saved, keeping it preserves natural chewing, the shape of the dental arch and the bone around the root, and avoids the need to replace it. Root canal treatment is not always possible or sufficient, and this is decided after the examination. Before starting, we inform you about the prognosis and the alternatives, including extraction.
Repeating the treatment
If a tooth that has already had root canal treatment develops new inflammation, repeating the endodontic treatment may be considered or, in selected cases, an apicoectomy, a minor surgical procedure at the tip of the root.
Care and follow-up
The tooth needs daily hygiene and regular follow-up, with an X-ray check of healing where the dentist considers it necessary. If the pain increases or swelling or fever appears, contact the practice. For an examination in Thessaloniki, book an appointment and we will inform you of your options before any treatment begins.
