Endodontics Center

Endodontic (root canal) treatment is necessary when, due to dental caries (tooth decay), trauma, chipped or cracked teeth, or other causes, microorganisms and their toxins enter the root canals through damaged areas. This infection affects the tooth’s nerve and soft tissue (the pulp).

When the pulp is damaged, the tooth loses its vitality because blood vessels and nerves die—this condition is called pulpitis. If left untreated, bacteria can spread beyond the root apex, leading to a more serious condition affecting the surrounding tissues—periodontitis.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The most common symptom of pulpitis is tooth pain, although not all tooth pain indicates pulpitis. Therefore, it is important to consult a dentist as soon as symptoms appear.

Pulpitis is diagnosed by a dentist during examination, typically with the help of a dental X-ray.

Treatment of Pulpitis

Treatment involves:

Removing decayed (carious) tissue
Treating or removing the damaged pulp (depending on the severity)
Mechanically and chemically cleaning the root canals

If the pulp cannot be preserved, it is removed. The canals are then thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, shaped, and filled with a special filling material.

Causes of Pulpitis

The most common cause is untreated tooth decay, which allows bacteria to reach the pulp. Other possible causes include:

Dental trauma
Bruxism (teeth grinding)
Poor-quality dental fillings

How Is Root Canal Treatment Performed?

Endodontic treatment may be carried out in one or several visits.

Before treatment, X-ray diagnostics are performed to assess the condition of the root canals
The tooth is anesthetized and isolated with a rubber dam
Root canals are carefully cleaned mechanically and disinfected chemically
Canals are shaped and filled with a sealing material
Finally, the crown of the tooth is restored

If the canal is infected, a medicated calcium paste may be placed inside during the first visit, and the tooth is sealed with a temporary filling until the next appointment.

Why Is Root Canal Treatment Important?

If root canal treatment is not performed:

Bacteria can spread beyond the root
Inflammation may develop in surrounding tissues
It can lead to gingivitis, periodontitis, and bone loss around the tooth
Serious complications may occur

What Is Endodontic Retreatment?

Endodontic retreatment is usually required when the initial root canal treatment was inadequate—for example, when canals were not fully cleaned or properly filled, leading to secondary infection.

During retreatment: