Endodontics

 A root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure to remove infected or damaged tissue from inside a tooth. The treatment involves:

1. Anesthesia: Numbing the tooth and surrounding area to minimize discomfort.
2. Access: Creating an access hole in the tooth to reach the pulp chamber.
3. Removal: Removing the infected or damaged pulp, which includes nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue.
4. Cleaning: Thoroughly cleaning and shaping the inside of the root canal to prevent further infection.
5. Filling: Filling the root canal with a specialized material called gutta-percha.
6. Sealing: Sealing the access hole with a filling material.
7. Restoration: Restoring the tooth with a crown or filling to protect it from further damage.

The goal of root canal treatment is to save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted due to:

• Deep decay
• Cracks or fractures
• Trauma
• Repeated dental procedures

Root canal treatment can relieve:

• Toothache pain
• Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
• Swelling and tenderness in the surrounding gums

By removing the infected tissue and sealing the root canal, the treatment prevents further infection and helps to preserve the natural tooth.

Root canal treatment is generally considered better than extractions for several reasons:

• Preserves natural tooth: Root canal treatment allows you to keep your natural tooth, which is always best for your oral health.
• Maintains chewing and biting ability: A tooth that has undergone root canal treatment will still function normally, whereas an extraction can affect your ability to chew and bite.
• Prevents bone loss: When a tooth is extracted, the surrounding bone can deteriorate, leading to facial changes and potential future dental problems.
• Avoids adjacent tooth shifting: When a tooth is removed, adjacent teeth can shift, causing orthodontic issues and potentially leading to further dental problems.
• Better aesthetic appeal: A root canal treatment allows for a natural-looking restoration, whereas an extraction may require a bridge, implant, or denture, which can be more noticeable.
• Long-term cost-effective: While the initial cost of a root canal treatment may be higher, it can be more cost-effective in the long run compared to the cost of extraction and replacement with a dental implant or bridge.
• Reduced risk of future problems: Root canal treatment eliminates the infected tissue, reducing the risk of future dental problems.
• Improved oral health: By saving the natural tooth, root canal treatment contributes to overall better oral health and well-being.

While extractions may be necessary in some cases, root canal treatment is generally the preferred option for saving a tooth and maintaining optimal oral health.

The number of sittings required for root canal treatment may vary depending on the complexity of the procedure and the expertise of the dentist. 

Here are some general guidelines on the number of sittings required for root canal treatment:

• Simple cases: one to two sittings
• Complex cases: two to three sittings
• Cases that require crown fitting: an additional sitting
• Cases that require temporary antibacterial medication: an additional sitting

With today's modern tools and technology, it is possible to complete a root canal treatment in one sitting.