Endodontics

Endodontics focuses on the internal tissues of the tooth, along with related pathologies and treatments.

Endodontic treatment

Endodontic treatment is necessary when the pulp (the nerve) becomes inflamed or infected due to damage caused by deep cavities, the outcome of dental procedures, or trauma resulting in fractures, chips, or deep cracks. Endodontic treatment (commonly known as root canal therapy) allows the tooth to be preserved, avoiding extraction.

Endodontic retreatment

Even in the absence of pain, it is possible for a tooth that has already undergone root canal treatment to develop an infection inside, leading to a lesion in the bone surrounding the root. One common finding is a granuloma. These chronic lesions can be caused by incomplete root canal treatment or by an old filling that has allowed bacteria to infiltrate over time. Often, they remain asymptomatic for many years, sometimes growing to a significant size and compromising the supporting bone of the tooth. They can occasionally flare up with an abscess (pain and swelling), ultimately leading to tooth loss. The treatment is a new root canal procedure (retreatment) to address the issues that were missed during the initial treatment. A dentist specialized in Endodontics has the expertise and equipment (operating microscope, innovative materials, and techniques) to minimize the risk of further failure, potentially preventing the permanent loss of the tooth.

Surgical Endodontics

Surgical Endodontics (commonly known as Apicoectomy) involves an outpatient surgery where, after making an incision in the gum and exposing part of the root through the bone, the last few millimeters of the root (the root apex) are removed. Then, the exposed canals are filled and sealed (retrograde filling). This technique, when performed by experienced hands with the aid of an operating microscope and advanced materials, ensures excellent success rates.