Root canal (endodontic) treatment

Root canal treatment is a tooth-saving procedure preventing the need for dental implants, bridges or dentures. Modern root canal treatment is very similar to having a routine filling and can often be completed in a single appointment, depending on the initial diagnosis and complexity of the case. Your comfort during and after the procedure will be ensured.

The procedure begins with the removal of the inflamed or necrotized pulp tissue from each canal of the involved tooth which has been numbed to ease any discomfort. After thorough cleaning, shaping and disinfection of the root canals they are subsequently filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. The crown of the tooth is then restored with a permanent filling or a crown. After the tooth crown is sealed, the treatment is considered completed.

A crown (“cap”) is commonly recommended soon after a root canal treatment to prevent breakage of cusps on the tooth chewing surface, and to provide lasting, predictable seal for the tooth, therefore minimizing the risk of recontamination of the root canal system and failure of the treatment.

Common causes of pulp diseases include: deep decay, trauma, cracks, faulty fillings and crowns, teeth grinding (bruxism) or severe periodontal disease. Pulpal inflammation is also a common occurrence following a deep filling placement, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, preparation for a full crown or treatment of deep pockets.

Root canal treatment is a procedure with a high success rate of more than 95%. With proper care, most root canal treated teeth can last as long as other natural teeth and often for a lifetime.

The use of technologic endodontic advancements appears to improve the outcome of such treatment. Magnification, illumination, or 3D imaging improves visualization, therefore increases precision, safety and success of the procedure. Ultrasonic instrumentation or diode lasers, may also assist in minimizing the risk of failures due to unresolved infection.

AG dentistry offers magnification, modern rotary instruments, sonic irrigation systems, and warm vertically compacted gutta-percha technique as a standard of care. We confirm the quality our root canal fillings with digital x-rays.