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Information About Endodontics and Root Canal Treatment

WHAT IS ENDODONTICS?

The visible part of the tooth in the mouth is called the crown, and the part remaining inside the jawbone is called the root. Teeth consist of several layers. The outermost layer is the enamel layer seen above the gum line. Beneath the enamel layer lies the dentin. Underneath the hard enamel and dentin tissues of the tooth lies the pulp tissue, which forms the living part of the tooth. Pulp tissue is also commonly known as the "nerve of the tooth". Pulp tissue provides the vitality and nourishment of the tooth. When damage occurs to the pulp tissue, pain can arise. Endodontics is the branch of dentistry that deals with and treats problems that have progressed into the dental pulp.

After completing five years of dental education, dentists who have performed practical and theoretical training in the endodontics department and completed their specialization in this branch are called endodontists.

WHY SHOULD ROOT CANAL TREATMENT BE PERFORMED?

When bacteria reach the pulp after tooth decay or trauma, it causes inflammation. When the pulp is damaged and inflamed, it loses its vitality as it does not have the ability to heal itself. In such a situation, severe sensitivity and pain may occur during chewing or with hot/cold temperatures, or spontaneous pain may develop that cannot be relieved with painkillers.

It is important to consult a dentist when pain or swelling occurs. Medications used without consulting a doctor, especially antibiotics, may temporarily reduce your pain, but treatment is essential because the primary cause of pain is damage to the pulp tissue. In addition, antibiotics used without a doctor's recommendation can lead to resistance development and complicate treatment.

If pulp inflammation continues and spreads towards the jawbone surrounding the root, it can cause bone destruction in this area. Teeth left untreated for a long time can lead to extraction.

Assistant Professor Nesibe Zeyneb GÖKKAYA

Yozgat Bozok University

Faculty of Dentistry

Department of Endodontics