What is endodontics?
Endodontics consists of removing diseased pulp tissue, i.e. infected tissue, from inside the canals of the tooth, in addition to cleaning and preparing (instrumentation and irrigation) these canals to the end of their roots (apex). These roots are then filled with a biocompatible material to achieve a good seal.
What symptoms indicate the need for endodontics?
Specialists in dentistry and stomatology say that the most common symptom is the sharp pain that occurs when pressure is released when you stop biting. However, there may be other symptoms such as pain on chewing, with variable patterns of referred pain and sensitivity to thermal changes. Chronic pulp inflammation can also occur, characterized by the formation of an abscess at the point of carious exposure. There are cases that do not produce pain, although it may appear if the impacted food hinders drainage or there is a sudden inoculation of contaminants in the pulp tissue.
How many sessions are necessary?
In most treatments, endodontics can be performed in a single session, although in some cases it may be necessary, or advisable, two or more sessions.
Is endodontic treatment painful?
Endodontic treatment is performed under local anesthesia. Once the endodontic treatment is finished and the anesthesia has worn off, some discomfort may appear when chewing for a few days due to irritation of the periodontal tissue surrounding the root. In these cases, appropriate medication is required.