The word ‘endodontics’ comes from the Greek prefix ‘endo-‘ meaning ‘within’ and the Greek word ‘odont’ meaning ‘tooth’. Endodontics is the diagnosis and treatment of root canal pulp. The dental pulp is the tissue contained within the tooth. It functions in the development of the tooth (its crown and roots) and continues to provide nourishment and sensory response throughout life.

What is Endodontic Therapy?

Endodontic – or root canal – therapy is a treatment of the tooth aimed to clear infection from the root canal and then protecting it from further infections. It is the removal of everything that lies in the root canal (hence where it got its nickname). The canal is then cleaned, shaped, decontaminated and filled with either tooth cement or a gutta percha.
The main goal of Endodontic Therapy is to eliminate pain and preserve the natural dentin.

Why Endodontic Treatment?

The most common reason for a patient to need Endodontic Treatment is because they are in pain, whether it is sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, pain while chewing, or a continuous dull or sharp pain. Pain and/or sensitivity are symptoms of a pulp injury or infection. An infection can be caused by a crack, cavity or loose filling where bacteria enter the tooth and eventually reject the pulp.

We usually suggest that you do everything possible to preserve the health of your teeth before considering extraction. Endodontic Specialists allow you to keep your natural tooth and restore its function to ensure comfortable chewing and a natural appearance, even on the most severely injured teeth.