Endodontology

What is endodontology?

Endodontology is the branch of dentistry that deals with diseases of the inside of the tooth. The term endodontology is derived from the ancient Greek words ‘endon’ (inside), ‘odon’ (tooth) and “logos” (study). Literally translated, it means ‘the study of the inside of the tooth’.

Endodontology focuses on inflammation of the pulp and diseases of the tooth root.

Endodontology, also known as endodontics, deals with the treatment of the inside of the tooth. The focus is primarily on the pulp, which also contains the tooth nerve.

Inflammation and infection of the tooth tissue can cause considerable discomfort. Many people affected by this experience severe pain, increased tooth sensitivity and, in advanced cases, swelling, cysts or abscesses. Endodontic treatments such as root canal treatment or root tip resection can lead to long-term improvement.

The primary goal in endodontics is always to preserve the natural tooth for as long as possible. Thanks to modern treatment methods, this is possible in many cases.

Please visit us in Zurich and let one of our dentists advise you on endodontics.
 

What treatments does endodontics include?

The three most important treatments in the field of endodontology are root canal treatment, root tip resection and regenerative endodontics. The latter refers to measures that serve to restore the internal structures of the tooth. With appropriate therapies, the pulp, dentine and other damaged structures can recover.

However, classic root canal treatment is more commonly performed in endodontology. In this procedure, the dentist removes the pulp from the root canals. The fine canals are carefully cleaned and filled with a replacement material. This is therefore also referred to as a root filling.

If the root canal treatment is unsuccessful or not effective, the dentist may recommend a root tip resection. This involves gaining access to the tooth root from the outside and removing a piece of the root tip. The tooth root is sealed and the surrounding tissue is carefully cleaned and disinfected.
 

Endodontology and root canal treatment – what is the difference?

Root canal treatment is one of the most important treatments in endodontology. It is often the first measure taken to preserve the diseased tooth. Endodontists also have other options at their disposal, such as root tip resection.
 

How does endodontic treatment work?

Before endodontic treatment, the dentist carries out various examinations to assess the condition of the tooth. Your symptoms and current X-rays, which allow the dentist to identify any inflammatory processes, are particularly important. The images also allow the dentist to assess the position and course of the fine root canals.

If your dentist recommends root canal treatment or root tip resection, this will be carried out under local anaesthetic. For more extensive treatment or patients with dental anxiety, we also offer alternative forms of anaesthesia. Please ask your dentist for more information.

In root canal treatment, access is gained from above via the crown of the tooth. The dentist removes the inflamed pulp, cleans the root canals and fills them with a root filling. Depending on the extent of the damage, the tooth may need to be crowned at a later date. Immediately after treatment, it is first fitted with a temporary filling.

In a root tip resection, the dentist opens the gum and removes small pieces of bone to expose the root tip. They shorten the root tip by 2–3 mm and seal it to prevent bacteria from entering. The surrounding tissue is also cleaned of any inflamed areas. Finally, the gum is placed back and sutured. The stitches are removed about a week later.
 

Endodontic aftercare: What should I look out for?

After endodontic treatment, your dentist will probably advise you to cool the treated area and take it easy for a few days. If they prescribe a mouthwash, use it as recommended and maintain thorough oral hygiene. In the days following your treatment, you can avoid brushing the treated area if necessary.

Depending on the type and extent of the treatment, you may experience mild to moderate pain for a few days. Your dentist will prescribe painkillers for you to take if you experience any discomfort.

You can eat again as soon as the anaesthetic has worn off completely. If possible, avoid hard, spicy, hot and caffeinated foods for a few days. You should also avoid alcohol and nicotine.
 

How can endodontic treatment help to preserve teeth?

Endodontics treats inflammation, eliminates sources of infection and removes damaged tissue. The tooth root and root canals are then sealed to prevent bacteria from entering. This provides the tooth with optimum protection against further infection and allows it to be filled or crowned.
 

How stable is a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment?

Depending on the extent of the damage, it can be assumed that the tooth will be less stable than before the disease. Endodontology aims to preserve as much natural tooth substance as possible. If large parts of the tooth substance have been lost, a crown can restore good stability.