Endodontics

Endodontics cures, preserving the tooth.

In the presence of pathologies of the oral cavity, dental endodontic treatment (or root canal treatment) consists in the removal of the dental pulp and bacteria present inside the root canal.

What is called root canal treatment of the tooth consists of:

dental nerve removal;
root canal cleaning;
sealing with thermoplastic material (gutta percha) and cement, or a medical sealing material.

Generally, a single session is sufficient. In special circumstances, it may be necessary to perform two or more endodontic sessions.

The most common signs and symptoms that suggest a tooth needs a root canal are:

widespread pain;
increased sensitivity to heat and cold;
pain when chewing;
swelling;
gum pain around the tooth.

In some cases, the absence of symptoms is also documented.

Compared to a vital tooth, devitalized teeth are more likely to suffer from fractures. The devitalized tooth, in fact, is devoid of nerve endings and blood vessels, as it has been deprived of vitality.

To counteract the fragility of a tooth subjected to root canal therapy, after having performed the root canal treatment, the dentist can evaluate a reconstruction of the tooth with an endocanal post, i.e. an element to be inserted inside the root of the tooth, to guarantee greater stability and resistence.

Subsequently, the dentist applies a dental crown (or capsule), a sort of shell that covers and protects the devitalized tooth, guaranteeing its full functional recovery.

In addition to restoring chewing, the reconstruction of devitalized teeth allows the treated tooth to be returned to its natural color.