Endodontics
Precise and minimally invasive treatments for your dental health.
What is Endodontics?
Endodontics is a branch of dentistry that deals with the treatment of dental pulp and the tissues surrounding a tooth's root. The dental pulp is a soft tissue inside the tooth containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. The need for endodontic treatment arises when the dental pulp becomes inflamed or infected due to various factors, such as deep dental caries, a fracture in the tooth, trauma, or advanced periodontal disease. The most common symptoms of an infection in the dental pulp are intense pain, sensitivity to cold or heat, swelling, and the formation of abscesses.
During endodontic treatment, the dentist or endodontist performs a series of procedures to remove the infected or inflamed dental pulp. The procedure is generally performed under local anesthesia to ensure the patient's comfort. The endodontist uses specialized instruments to clean and disinfect the tooth's root canal system, removing damaged tissues and present microorganisms.
Once the root canals are clean, they are sealed with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha, and the tooth is restored with a filling or a dental crown, depending on the extent of the damage. In some cases, additional treatment may be necessary, such as endodontic surgery or endodontic retreatment.
Endodontics is a highly effective procedure for saving teeth that might otherwise need to be extracted. After successful endodontic treatment, the treated tooth can function normally and last a lifetime with proper care, such as good oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist.
What is the Endodontic Procedure Like?
The endodontic procedure is generally carried out in several stages and may require one or several appointments with the dentist or endodontist. Below, I describe the general steps of the endodontic procedure:
- Evaluation and diagnosis: The dentist or endodontist will examine the affected tooth and take x-rays to assess the condition of the dental pulp and surrounding tissues. If endodontic treatment is necessary, it will be planned.
- Local anesthesia: Before beginning the endodontic procedure, local anesthesia will be administered to numb the area around the tooth being treated. This ensures that the patient is comfortable during the procedure.
- Isolation of the tooth: A rubber dam is placed around the affected tooth to keep it isolated and dry during the treatment. This helps prevent contamination by saliva and facilitates access to the tooth.
- Access to the dental pulp: A small opening is made in the crown of the tooth to access the dental pulp inside. This is done using a dental drill.
- Removal of the dental pulp: A series of files and other specialized instruments are used to remove the damaged or infected dental pulp from the tooth's root canal system. The root canals are cleaned and shaped to prepare them for sealing.
- Irrigation and disinfection: During the cleaning process, an irrigating solution is used to rinse and disinfect the root canals, removing pulp debris and microorganisms present.
- Filling of the root canals: Once the root canals are clean and disinfected, they are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. The gutta-percha is placed in the canals in the form of cones and sealed with endodontic cement to prevent the entry of bacteria.
- Dental restoration: After completing the endodontic procedure, additional dental restoration may be required. Depending on the amount of dental structure removed during the procedure, a filling or dental crown may be chosen to protect and strengthen the treated tooth.
It is important to note that each case may vary and some teeth may require additional procedures, such as the placement of an intraradicular post or endodontic surgery in more complex cases.
After the endodontic treatment, the patient may experience some sensitivity or discomfort for a few days, but it usually subsides over time. It is crucial to follow the dentist or endodontist's instructions, maintain good oral hygiene, and attend follow-up visits to ensure optimal recovery and oral health.
Duration
How many appointments are necessary for a root canal?
The number of appointments necessary to complete a root canal can vary depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the case, the number of root canals in the affected tooth, and the need for additional treatments. Generally, a root canal can be completed in one or two appointments, but in some cases, it may require more.
In a single-appointment root canal, the endodontist performs the entire procedure in one extended visit. This may be possible when the case is relatively straightforward and does not present additional complications.
Procedure when two appointments are necessary:
- At the first appointment, the initial evaluation, diagnosis, local anesthesia, and access to the root canal system are carried out. An initial cleaning and disinfection of the canals may be performed, followed by the placement of a temporary medication to aid healing.
- At a follow-up appointment, usually scheduled a few days or weeks later, the endodontist removes the temporary medication, performs a more thorough cleaning and disinfection of the root canals, and fills them with the permanent filling material.
In some cases, additional appointments may be necessary if there are complications, such as the presence of additional root canals, persistent infections, or the need for endodontic surgery.
It's important to note that each case is unique and the number of appointments required may vary. Your dentist or endodontist will be able to provide a more accurate estimate after assessing your situation and planning the appropriate treatment for you.
What are the advantages of performing endodontics with a microscope or magnification?
Performing endodontics using a microscope or magnification offers several significant advantages compared to conventional methods. Here are some of the advantages of using a microscope in endodontics:
- Greater precision: The use of a microscope provides an enlarged and detailed view of the treatment area. This allows the endodontist to identify and treat more precisely the anatomical structures within the tooth, such as the root canals and smaller branches. Magnification helps to improve the precision of procedures and reduces the possibility of errors.
- Better lighting: Endodontic microscopes are equipped with powerful and adjustable lighting. Optimal illumination allows for a clear and detailed view of the treatment area, facilitating the work of the endodontist and reducing the risk of overlooking small lesions or additional canals.
- Identification of fractures and cracks: Fractures and cracks in teeth can be difficult to detect with the naked eye. The microscope provides an enlarged view that helps to identify these injuries more easily. This is especially important as fractures and cracks can have a significant impact on the success of endodontic treatment.
- Greater comfort for the endodontist: The use of the microscope allows the endodontist to work in a more ergonomic posture. Having a clear and precise view without the need for uncomfortable positions reduces fatigue and physical stress during treatment. This can lead to a higher level of precision and more consistent results.
- Better communication with the patient: The microscope allows for the display of enlarged and detailed images to the patient in real time. This helps to improve communication between the endodontist and the patient, as the patient can see and better understand dental problems and the treatment process. This can increase patient confidence and overall satisfaction with the treatment.
In summary, the use of a microscope in endodontics brings significant benefits such as increased precision, better lighting, detection of fractures and cracks, comfort for the endodontist, and better communication with the patient. These advantages contribute to successful outcomes and a more effective and satisfying treatment experience for both the professional and the patient.
Are there alternatives to nerve extraction procedures in endodontics?
- Direct pulp capping: Used when there is pulp exposure due to deep caries or dental fracture. In this procedure, a protective material is applied directly over the exposed pulp to promote the formation of reparative dentin and protect it from external irritants. A dental restoration is then placed to seal the tooth.
- Indirect pulp capping: Similar to direct pulp capping, but used when pulp exposure is more extensive or complex. A protective material is placed over the exposed pulp, but instead of closing the tooth immediately, a base or temporary material is placed and the pulp is allowed to recover before placing a permanent restoration.
- Pulpotomy: A common treatment in primary (baby) teeth when the pulp in the pulp chamber is infected but the root of the tooth is still healthy. In this procedure, only the coronal portion of the pulp is removed and a medication is placed to aid in the formation of reparative dentin. The tooth is then restored with a suitable material.
- Vital Pulp Therapy: What used to be pulpotomy in children has been performed in adults for many years, depending on the case and certain characteristics of the pulp that the clinician must identify with a microscope, such as color and bleeding of the pulp or the often wrongly called nerve. Vital pulp therapy in some cases where the exposure of the pulp tissue is minimal could replace endodontics. It is important to note that these treatments can only be performed if the dental pulp is still alive and can respond to stimulation and healing. In cases of severe infections or pulp necrosis, complete endodontics may be necessary or, in extreme cases, tooth extraction. If you have any dental problems, I recommend consulting a dentist who can assess your situation and recommend the appropriate treatment for you.
Vital pulp therapy in some cases where the exposure of the pulp tissue is minimal could replace endodontics.
It is important to note that these treatments can only be performed if the dental pulp is still alive and can respond to stimulation and healing. In cases of severe infections or pulp necrosis, complete endodontics may be necessary or, in extreme cases, tooth extraction. If you have any dental problems, I recommend consulting a dentist who can assess your situation and recommend the appropriate treatment for you.
How are white dental stains treated in children and adults?
The treatment of white dental stains in children and adults can vary depending on the cause and severity of the stains. Here are some common treatment options:
- Remineralization: If the white stains are the result of enamel demineralization, the dentist may recommend treatments to help remineralize the teeth. These treatments can include the topical application of high-fluoride products or specific remineralizers to strengthen dental enamel and reduce stains. We use very advanced techniques that manage to eliminate 90% to 100% of the white stain, without subtracting, always adding to the dental structure.
- Teeth whitening: In some cases, teeth whitening may be an option to treat white stains. Teeth whitening can help even out tooth color, blending the stains and improving their appearance. However, it is important to carefully evaluate whether whitening is suitable for each case, as there may be contraindications depending on the underlying cause of the stains.
- Enamel microabrasion: Enamel microabrasion is a procedure in which a thin layer of dental enamel is removed by applying an acidic solution combined with gentle abrasion. This can help remove superficial stains and improve the appearance of the teeth. However, this treatment may not be suitable for deeper or more extensive stains.
- Dental veneers: In more severe or persistent cases of white stains, dental veneers may be an option. Veneers are thin layers of porcelain or composite resin that are adhered to the front surface of the teeth to improve their appearance. Veneers can cover stains and provide a natural aesthetic appearance.
It is important to note that the specific treatment will depend on the diagnosis and recommendations of the dentist after evaluating the dental stains. Each case is unique and may require a personalized approach. It is advisable to consult a dentist for an accurate diagnosis and to determine the best treatment plan for white dental stains in children and adults.
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What is the success rate with the micro-screw technique?
The success rate of endodontics varies depending on several factors, such as the type of tooth treated, the initial condition of the tooth, the skill of the endodontist, the patient's compliance with post-care recommendations, and the need for additional treatments.
In general, endodontics is considered to have a high success rate. According to scientific studies and systematic reviews, the long-term success of endodontics is estimated to be in the range of 85% to 97%. This means that the vast majority of teeth treated endodontically remain healthy and functional over the long term.
However, it is important to note that not all endodontic cases have the same prognosis. Some factors may reduce the success rate, such as the presence of dental fractures, persistent infections, or anatomical difficulties that make access and proper cleaning of the root canals challenging.
Additionally, it is crucial for the patient to follow the dentist's or endodontist's instructions after the treatment, such as maintaining good oral hygiene, scheduling regular follow-up visits, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking.
It is important to discuss your expectations and possible outcomes with your dentist or endodontist, as they will be able to provide you with more specific and personalized information about the prognosis of your particular case.
What are the benefits of undergoing a dental stain removal treatment at ENIQ?
Undergoing endodontics using advanced technology and specialized equipment can provide several additional benefits compared to conventional methods. Below are some of these benefits:
- Greater precision and visibility: Technology, such as the use of microscopes or magnification systems, allows for an enlarged and detailed view of the treatment area. This enhances the precision of the endodontist in identifying and treating root canals, even those of small size or with complex anatomy. Greater visibility also helps avoid errors and improve treatment outcomes.
- Better illumination: The high-intensity LED or fiber optic lighting systems used in endodontic technology provide bright and adjustable light. This improves visibility during the procedure, allowing for more accurate identification of root canals and anatomical structures, which in turn improves the effectiveness of the treatment.
- Improved access: Some technologies, like electronic apex locators, help determine the length of the root canals more accurately, facilitating their proper cleaning and sealing. Additionally, specialized instruments and devices used in advanced technology endodontics can provide improved access to hard-to-reach areas, allowing for more comprehensive and efficient treatment.
- Faster and more efficient treatment: Advanced endodontic technology, such as rotary or reciprocating instrumentation systems, can speed up the process of preparing and cleaning the root canals. This can reduce the time needed to complete the treatment and improve the efficiency of the procedure.
- Better prognosis and long-term results: By using advanced technology, the precision and quality of endodontic treatment are improved. This can contribute to a higher success rate and more favorable long-term results. Moreover, technology can also help prevent or more effectively address complications, which can improve the prognosis of the treated tooth.
What is the price of dental root canal treatment?
Below, we will show you the different price ranges for a root canal:
- 2024 prices for single-rooted endodontics from major insurance and dental franchises: from 108 to 120 € not including extras such as laser, magnifying glasses or microscope.
- 2024 prices for bi-rooted endodontics from major insurance and dental franchises: from 120 to 135 € not including extras such as laser, magnifying glasses or microscope.
- 2024 prices for multi-rooted endodontics from major insurance and dental franchises: from 128 to 220 € not including extras such as laser, guided navigation, magnifying glasses or microscope.
Remember that the cost of root canal should not be the only factor to consider when choosing a dentist. It is also important to evaluate the quality of service, the professional's experience, and recommendations from other patients, as this is the basis for preserving the tooth longer in the mouth or ensuring any treatment placed on top of the root canal is durable over time.
- Financing: Up to 24 months interest-free. Up to 60 months with preferential conditions.
- Payment Breakdown: Pay monthly in comfortable installments for the treatment.
- Discount for early payment: Paying the entire treatment at the start.
- Multiple payment options: Direct debit, credit card, cash, transfer, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Bizum.
Root Canal
Dental Restoration
*subject to specialist assessment
Our root canal is easily applied by experienced dentists, ensuring a complication-free treatment and exceptional results.
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All inclusive
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Interest-free financing
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have more questions about dental root canal treatment?
With anesthesia, there is no procedure in dentistry that hurts. What may happen in procedures like root canal treatment and surgery is that more anesthesia and a different technique are required. Knowing this and the possibility of using some type of medication to prevent nerve blocking makes the procedure painless.
Many patients come with this misconception. On the contrary, root canal treatment is a procedure to save teeth that are in very bad conditions. As a procedure, it does not deteriorate the condition of the tooth at all and, in expert hands, is the best alternative to prevent losing your tooth.
If you have a tooth that has turned black and it hurts, it's important to seek dental attention as soon as possible. The black color change in the tooth can be an indicator of an underlying dental problem that needs to be evaluated and treated by a dentist.
The pain can be caused by various conditions, such as deep dental decay, an infection at the root of the tooth, or even a dental fracture. Without proper evaluation and diagnosis, it's difficult to determine the exact cause of the pain and color change.
I would recommend contacting a dentist in your area and requesting an appointment as soon as possible. During the appointment, the dentist will examine the tooth, perform tests, and possibly take x-rays to assess the condition of the tooth and determine the necessary treatment.
Remember that dental pain should not be ignored, as it can indicate a more serious problem. Seeking early dental care can help prevent complications and allow for more effective treatment.
Symptoms that may indicate the need for a root canal include intense dental pain, sensitivity to extreme heat or cold, swelling in the gums, or the presence of abscesses. However, only a dentist can provide an accurate diagnosis through clinical exams and x-rays.
