Endodontics – Root Canal Treatment

In the realm of oral and dental health in Istanbul, it’s crucial to recognize that no artificial tooth can truly replicate the form and function of a natural one. Therefore, preserving your natural teeth through effective treatment should be a top priority.

Root canal treatment, a well-established endodontic procedure, serves as a vital lifeline for damaged teeth. This treatment targets the tooth’s pulp – the innermost layer housing nerves, blood vessels, and lymph vessels. When the pulp sustains irreparable damage, often due to bacterial infiltration from broken teeth or deep cavities, it undergoes necrosis (death).

The presence of bacteria triggers inflammation within the tooth’s pulp. If left untreated, the damaged or infected pulp becomes a breeding ground for infection, jeopardizing the tooth itself and the surrounding tissues. Ultimately, this can lead to the unfortunate loss of the tooth.

What is Root Canal Treatment and How is it Performed?

Root canal treatment is a treatment method applied when the pulp is damaged. In the past, extraction was the only solution when encountering a diseased soft tooth layer, but nowadays it is possible to treat these teeth.

Root canal treatment in Istanbul, also known as endodontic treatment, is a dental procedure aimed at saving a tooth whose pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue) has become infected or inflamed. This infection or inflammation can occur due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, cracks or chips in the tooth, or trauma to the face.

The procedure is performed by a dentist or an endodontist (a specialist in root canal treatment) and involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp, cleaning and shaping the inside of the root canals (the narrow channels that extend from the pulp chamber down to the tip of the root), and then filling and sealing the space. This helps to prevent reinfection and save the tooth. Root canal treatment is often a preferred alternative to extraction because it allows the natural tooth to be preserved, maintaining the function and aesthetics of the smile.

The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and can be completed in one or two appointments, depending on the complexity of the case. While root canals have a reputation for being painful, advancements in techniques and anesthesia have made the procedure much more comfortable, and most patients experience minimal discomfort during and after the treatment in Istanbul.

Why is Root Canal Treatment Performed?

The nerve or pulp of a tooth can be damaged, infected, or inflamed due to deep cavities, cracks, fractures, or facial trauma. When the pulp or nerve of the tooth is damaged, bacteria start to multiply within the root canal. Bacteria and other decayed remnants can cause infection or a tooth abscess. An abscess is a pocket filled with pus, and it occurs when the infection spreads to the very end of the tooth roots.

The formation of an abscess in the tooth causes severe pain. In addition to causing infection in the root canal, the abscess can lead to swelling that spreads to the face, neck, or other areas of the head, loss of bone around the tooth root, and drainage problems between the tooth and cheek.

It is crucial to treat the tooth with an abscess as soon as possible for the person to maintain their quality of life. With the increase in nighttime toothache, the person’s sleep quality is affected, and they may face problems such as difficulty concentrating during the day.

Conditions Requiring Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment in Istanbul, Turkey becomes necessary when the pulp inside the tooth, which contains nerves and blood vessels, becomes inflamed or infected. This can occur due to several reasons, including deep decay that reaches the pulp, repeated dental procedures on the same tooth, cracks or chips in the tooth, or trauma to the face.

The symptoms of pulp damage may include severe toothache, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, tenderness to touch and chewing, swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums, or a persistent or recurring pimple on the gums. If left untreated, the infection can spread, leading to abscess formation and potentially causing bone loss or tooth loss. Root canal treatment is often the best option to save the tooth and prevent further complications.

What Happens If Root Canal Treatment Is Not Done?

In cases where the pulp cannot heal itself due to deep cavities and cracks, the tooth loses its vitality, and the infection can spread throughout the tooth. If root canal treatment is not performed, the infection can reach the tissues at the root apex.

The jawbone surrounding the tooth also becomes eroded by inflammation. An abscess occurs in this cavity. This condition is accompanied by pain and swelling, and the tooth is lost in a short time.

Stages of Root Canal Treatment:

Root canal treatment typically involves several stages. First, the dentist will numb the area around the affected tooth and create an opening to access the pulp chamber. The infected or inflamed pulp is then removed, and the root canals are cleaned, shaped, and disinfected using specialized instruments. Once the canals are thoroughly cleaned, they are filled with a biocompatible material and sealed. A temporary filling may be placed to protect the tooth while a permanent restoration, such as a crown, is fabricated. In the final stage, the permanent restoration is placed to restore the tooth’s function and appearance.

If the tooth does not become infected again and preventive measures are taken against tooth decay, this filling can be used for a lifetime. You can catch the onset of infection during your regular dental checkups. In addition, with very good oral care, the tooth can be prevented from decaying again.

Root canal treatment is a safe and effective way to save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted. By removing the infected or inflamed tissue and sealing the tooth, root canal therapy can help to prevent further damage and preserve the natural tooth structure. With proper care and maintenance, a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment can last a lifetime. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings, to prevent future dental problems and ensure the longevity of the treated tooth.

What is the Life span of a Tooth with Root Canal Treatment?

If the tooth does not get infected again and preventive measures are taken against tooth decay, this dental filling can be used for a lifetime. Regular dental check-ups can help detect the onset of infection. In addition, excellent oral hygiene should be maintained to prevent tooth decay from recurring.

While root canal treatment is highly successful, the lifespan of a treated tooth can vary depending on several factors, including the quality of the treatment, the patient’s oral hygiene practices, and any subsequent trauma or damage to the tooth. In general, a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment can last as long as a natural tooth, potentially even a lifetime, with proper care and maintenance.

Regular dental checkups are essential for monitoring the treated tooth and detecting any potential issues early on, allowing for prompt intervention and preventing further damage. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash, can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease, which are common causes of tooth loss.