Endodontics

Endodontics is a branch of dentistry related to the treatment of root canals in teeth. Within the hard tissue of the tooth (beneath the enamel and dentine layers) there is a section called “pulp” which includes the lymph vessels, blood and nerve pack that provide the vitality of the tooth. This structure, called the pulp chamber, allows the teeth to grow.

If dental caries are not treated in the first stages, it will progress and reach the pulp. At this stage, the pulp is inflamed and the patient has severe toothache. In the next stage, the bacteria secretes acids which kill the pulp. In addition to caries, pulp is damaged in some tooth fractures. To protect the teeth and surrounding tissues, diseased pulp tissue should be removed. This process is called root canal treatment.

Canal treatment is performed under local anesthesia and the patient does not feel pain.