ENDODONTICS (ROOT CANAL TREATMENT)
What is Root Canal Treatment (Endodontics)?
The pulp structure, which contains the soft tissues such as nerves, blood vessels, and lymph vessels inside the tooth, becomes irreparably damaged when affected. The removal of this thread-like tissue in the central part is called "root canal treatment". After the damaged, affected, or dead pulp is removed, the remaining cavity is cleaned and shaped. It is then refilled to complete the root canal procedure. If the damaged pulp structure is not removed, infections occur in the tooth and surrounding tissues, and you may lose the tooth completely.
In the past, diseased and damaged teeth were extracted, causing loss of the smile. Now, even teeth that would have been lost are saved thanks to root canal treatment. The pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth containing nerves, blood, and lymph vessels) dies when it is damaged beyond repair. The removal of this small, thread-like tissue in the center of the tooth, i.e., the pulp, is called "root canal treatment". When the damaged, diseased, or dead pulp is removed, the remaining cavity is cleaned, shaped, and refilled, closing the root canal. If damaged or diseased pulp is not removed, infections occur in the tooth and surrounding tissues, and you may lose the tooth completely. Years ago, such teeth were extracted. Today, even teeth in such condition can be saved with root canal treatment.
The most common causes of pulp damage are:
• Cracked tooth,
• Broken tooth,
• Deep decay,
• Damage caused by trauma or serious impact in the past or recently.
Do You Need Root Canal Treatment?
• Prolonged sensitivity to heat and cold,
• Pain or discomfort while chewing,
• Pain that worsens at night,
• Discoloration of the tooth,
• Pain or swelling in lymph nodes near the tooth.
If you have any of these symptoms, you likely need root canal treatment.
What Happens If Root Canal Treatment Is Not Performed?
In cases like deep decay and cracks where the pulp cannot repair itself, the tooth loses all vitality. Infection can spread through the entire tooth. Unlike other tissues in our body, this tissue cannot regenerate. If the infection is not treated, it may reach the tip of the root. The surrounding jawbone becomes inflamed, causing more serious problems. Abscesses form in empty spaces. Pain and swelling accompany this condition.
How Is Root Canal Treatment Performed?
Root canal treatment may require multiple sessions depending on the case.
• Local anesthesia is applied to the tooth to avoid pain and discomfort.
• Decay is cleaned and the diseased soft tissue is removed when reaching the tooth's core. Nerve and tissue remnants are completely cleaned.
• The root canal is shaped. Healing may be accelerated with medications.
• During sessions, the tooth is temporarily sealed with filling materials until fully treated. After the inflammation and infection stop, the canal is filled with special material up to the root tip.
• In some patients, treatment can be completed in one session.
• After shaping and filling, a post may be placed, and a crown can be fitted. Your dentist will decide based on the amount of tooth structure lost.
Is There Pain After Root Canal Treatment?
It is normal to feel pressure pain for a few days after treatment. These pains can be controlled with painkillers your dentist recommends.
How Long Does a Treated Tooth Last?
A treated tooth can be used for a lifetime with correct oral care and regular dental check-ups. Discipline and attention to detail are very important. Since treated teeth can develop cavities again, oral hygiene and regular dental visits are essential to prevent future problems.
Since the pulp that keeps the tooth alive is no longer present, treated teeth become more prone to fractures. This should be considered when deciding whether to place a crown or filling after root canal treatment.
Does a Tooth Die After Root Canal Treatment?
The tooth does not die after root canal treatment. It continues to be nourished by surrounding tissues but loses elasticity and becomes more brittle.
Can Root Canal Treatment Be Performed on All Teeth?
Some teeth cannot be saved with root canal treatment. Reasons include inaccessible canals, root fractures, insufficient bone support, or severe tissue loss.
