Endodontics

Endodontics is the branch of dentistry concerned with the morphology and pathology of the dentine-pulp complex and the periradicular tissues. The study and practice of endodontics encompass the basic clinical sciences including the biology of the normal pulp, and the aetiology, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and injuries to the pulp and associated periradicular tissues.

Endodontists are reflective, potential leaders and educators in the field. They have obtained a a postgraduate University education demonstrating advanced theoretical knowledge, understanding and clinical and research skills related to endodontics, and are essential to improve and maintain a high level of oral health care within the community.

Endodontic Procedures

Root Canal Treatment

A root canal treatment is a dental procedure to remove inflamed pulp (aka tooth ache) or infected pulp (aka tooth infection) on the inside of the tooth.  Without treatment a dental abscess ultimately forms and may cause further dental or even health problems.  Root canal treatment carefully clean and disinfect the tooth from within, then filled and sealed the internal space.  Root canal treatment is designed to eliminate dead pulp and bacteria from the root canal, prevent reinfection of the tooth and save the natural tooth.

Saving the natural tooth with root canal treatment has many advantages:

  • Efficient chewing

  • Normal biting force and sensation

  • Natural appearance

  • Protects other teeth from excessive wear or strain.

Apical Surgery

Occasionally, a conventional root canal procedure alone cannot save your tooth and thus a surgical approach is required.  Apical surgery is a root end surgery, also known as apicoectomy, apicectomy, retrograde root canal treatment or root-end filling, is an endodontic surgical procedure whereby a tooth's root tip is removed, and a root end cavity is prepared and filled with a biocompatible material.  A thorough examination of the tooth and root is required to determine the need, approach and prognosis of surgery.

Dental Trauma

Dental trauma refers to trauma (injury) to the teeth and/or periodontium (gums, periodontal ligament, alveolar bone), and nearby soft tissues such as the lips, tongue, etc.  Dental trauma can happen to anyone through an accident or sports injury.  Beside fractures, teeth can be knocked out completely, pushed forward, backwards or up into the socket.  Root canal treatment is usually needed for permanent teeth that have been dislodged and should be started several days following the injury.

Cracked Tooth

  • A painful crack in a tooth.

  • Diagnosing cracked tooth syndrome can be difficult because the crack may be so small that it's not seen on X-ray.

  • Symptoms may include pain that comes and goes when chewing or eating certain foods.

  • Treatment varies depending on the circumstances and can range from observation to inserting a crown. If severe, a root canal or tooth extraction may be required.