Purpose of Treatment
Endodontic treatment removes infected or inflamed pulp from inside a tooth and seals the cleaned canals. The goal is to stop pain, clear bacteria & preserve function. By treating infection at its source, the dentist prevents spread to bone and supports stability without extracting the tooth.
When Dentists Recommend It
Therapy is advised when decay, cracks or trauma expose the pulp, causing lingering sensitivity, bite pain, swelling or a gum pimple. Thermal & percussion tests with radiographs indicate irreversible pulpitis or necrosis. Early care limits bone loss and flare-ups while protecting adjacent teeth. Get the smile you deserve with a dental crown in Victor Harbor—check us out!
Diagnostic Steps
Assessment includes medical history, vitality tests and imaging. Cone-beam scans help in complex roots or prior treatment. The dentist checks periodontal support & remaining structure to confirm restorability. Diagnosis guides prognosis, number of visits and any interim medication needed for symptoms between appointments.
What Happens During Treatment
After anesthesia and isolation with a rubber dam, an access opening is made. Small files & irrigants remove tissue, shape the canals and flush debris. The canals are dried, filled with gutta-percha and sealer and the access is closed with a durable filling to block reinfection and restore the surface.
Restoring Strength After Cleaning
Back teeth and heavily restored teeth often need a crown to resist fracture. When structure is limited, a post & core may support the crown. Until final restoration, avoid chewing hard items on the treated side and keep the area clean with routine hygiene and provided instructions.
Advantages of Keeping the Tooth
Preserving a natural tooth maintains chewing efficiency, jawbone stimulation & alignment. Compared with extraction and replacement, treatment is conservative and often cost-effective over time. Success rates are high when canals are sealed and a well-fitting crown is placed promptly, giving reliable comfort and function.
Risks, Alternatives and Decision Factors
Possible issues include missed canals, ledges, instrument separation or persistent infection needing retreatment or apical surgery. If prognosis is poor, extraction with implant, bridge or partial denture is considered. Decisions should weigh remaining structure, cracks, periodontal status, and habits such as bruxism.
Recovery, Care and Prevention
Mild soreness for one to two days usually responds to over-the-counter pain relief. Report swelling or persistent pain. Maintain brushing, interdental cleaning & regular checkups. Use mouthguards for sports and address grinding. Early fillings for new decay help prevent future pulp problems and protect completed treatment.
Author Bio: –
Ansley has 12 years of experience in the dental world. You can find his thoughts at childrens dentistry blog.
