Root canal treatment

Root canal treatment is a root cleaning process with antiseptic solutions, pharmaceuticals or laser radiation. Root canal treatment is required in damaged permanent or primary teeth, in cases where the damage expanded within the dentin and even approached or contaminated the root of the tooth. The root canal treatment of the primary teeth is called pulpectomy and it can remove the entire nerve of the tooth or a coronal part of the pulp, meaning a part of the nerve, while the rest of it is healing. Root canal treatment is also performed at teeth that have large fractures. Its purpose is to remove dead cells, germs and damaged nerves and then block the root canal with the right materials to prevent the re-infection of the area.

Root canal treatment requires 2-3 visits but, in some occasions, where the infection is limited, the treatment can be completed in one appointment. On the contrary, chronic inflammations require a longer treatment and some times antibiotics are prescribed. After local anesthesia, the root or the roots of the tooth are cleaned with mechanic or chemical means and with antiseptic solutions. Until the next appointment, a provisional filling is used. Local anesthesia is usually required only at the first appointment. The treatment is concluded when the inflammation no longer produces pus or other fluids and when there are no symptoms of pain, tenderness or swelling. At the end, the tooth is restored with a white filling, when the damage is limited, and with an onlay or a ceramic or metal crown when the damage is of greater extend.

Digital technology helps to reduce the time that is required for each appointment, making the root canal treatment quicker, easier and more comfortable for the patient. Dental Smiles Clinic is equipped with a digital x-ray machine which reduces radiation and immediately appears x-rays that are needed during the treatment. Our clinic also has a digital apex locator for the precise root measurement and a more efficient cleaning.  Meanwhile, motorized cleaning systems (endomotor) are ideal for cleaning the root evenly and in a shorter period of time, thus contributing to a faster treatment.

In rare cases, when the inflammation is persistent, even after the root canal treatment is completed, sealing of the root reversely with a procedure called apicectomy is indicated.  It is done with local anesthesia accessing the tip of the root.