Root Canal Treatment (Endodontics) – Preserving Teeth Instead of Removing Them

A root canal treatment makes it possible to preserve inflamed or dead teeth for the long term in many cases. The diseased tissue is removed from the inside of the tooth, the root canal system is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, and then sealed in a bacteria-tight manner.

The goal of the treatment is to eliminate discomfort and preserve the natural tooth despite damage to the tooth’s interior.

When Is a Root Canal Treatment Necessary?

Inside every tooth is the dental pulp, also called the pulp. It consists of nerve fibers, blood vessels, and connective tissue and supplies the tooth from within. If this tissue is irreversibly inflamed or already dead due to caries, bacteria, or other factors, a root canal treatment may become necessary.

Even a dead tooth can cause pain. The cause is often inflammation in the area of the root tip when bacteria from the root canal system enter the surrounding tissue. Such inflammations can suddenly cause severe discomfort, but in some cases may also remain unnoticed for an extended period.

How Does the Root Canal Treatment Proceed?

During the treatment, the inflamed or dead dental pulp is completely removed from the root canals. The fine canals inside the tooth are then carefully cleaned, disinfected, and sealed tightly with a special root filling.

It is important that the entire root canal system is completely prepared and sealed in a bacteria-tight manner. Only in this way can the risk of renewed inflammation be kept as low as possible.

The tooth itself and its root remain completely preserved during the treatment. Only the diseased tissue inside the tooth is removed.

Under local anesthesia, the root canal treatment can usually be performed with minimal to no pain. Thanks to modern treatment methods, it is often possible in just one session. In cases of more complex root conditions or pronounced inflammations, multiple appointments may be required.

Goal of the Treatment: Long-Term Tooth Preservation

A root canal treatment serves to preserve a tooth worth saving in the mouth for the long term despite inflamed or dead dental pulp. In many cases, tooth extraction can be avoided.

After successful treatment, the tooth is provided with a suitable stabilizing restoration depending on the loss of substance to ensure its long-term function.

Further information: More on Periodontitis Treatment and the overview under Treatment