Endodontics

What Is Endodontics?

Endodontics, commonly known as root canal treatment, is a branch of dentistry that deals with the pulp chamber (the inner part of the tooth) and the treatment of problems occurring in this area. An endodontist is a dentist specialized in root canal treatment.

When tooth decay progresses deeply into the tooth, patients may experience prolonged pain, especially after consuming hot or cold foods and drinks. Symptoms may also include noticeable swelling around the neck area and/or throbbing pain.

After all examinations and evaluations are completed, if the problem is determined to be tooth-related and the tooth requires root canal treatment, the treatment is performed at this stage.

Contrary to common belief, a tooth that has previously undergone root canal treatment may require retreatment. Inadequate or improperly performed root canal treatments can later lead to infections. Additionally, even a well-performed treatment may lose its seal over time for various reasons, allowing bacterial leakage and causing infection. All these situations may make root canal retreatment necessary.

Among dental procedures, root canal treatment is often considered the most frightening and difficult to understand by patients. By summarizing the main stages of the endodontic treatment procedures performed in our clinic, we aim to help eliminate our patients’ fears and concerns regarding root canal treatment.

Tooth Anatomy

In order to understand how root canal treatment works, it is first necessary to have a basic understanding of tooth anatomy.

The visible part of the tooth above the gum line is called the “crown,” while the part hidden beneath the gums and embedded in the jawbone is called the “root.” A tooth consists of several layers.

The outermost layer above the gum line is called “enamel.” Enamel is the hardest and most mineralized substance in the human body. Beneath the gum line, the root surface is covered by a material called “cementum.” Under the enamel and cementum layers lies a structure called “dentin.” Although dentin is almost as hard as bone, unlike enamel, it contains nerve endings.

Beneath the dentin lies the “pulp.” The pulp consists of small and large blood vessels, connective tissue, nerve fibers, and various cells. During the growth and development of a tooth, the pulp nourishes the tooth. Once the tooth is fully developed, the pulp’s primary function is to signal damage or infection (inflammation) by transmitting pain.

Sometimes the pulp can become inflamed. In such cases, the pulp must be removed through root canal treatment. Root canal treatment is often the only way to preserve such a tooth in the mouth. A fully developed tooth can continue to function successfully even without its pulp.