Endodontics refers
to that discipline in dentistry that deals with maintaining
the health of the living tissues inside a tooth (pulp)
and preventing infection of the surrounding tissues. Where
infection is already present, the aim is to resolve it
and restore the tooth to a good appearance and function.
As other structures in the facial, head and neck region
may mimic toothache, an endodontist can play an important
role in making an accurate diagnosis and undertake appropriate
clinical procedures. Where the problem may be non –
odontogenic in origin (ie. not tooth related) an appropriate
referral to a Pain Specialist can be made.
One of the most common therapies performed by an endodontist
is Root Canal Treatment.
Why is root canal treatment needed?
The root canal system in a healthy tooth contains
living tissue (the pulp) including nerves and blood vessels.
This tissue may be damaged by decay or traumatic injury
to the tooth resulting in infection with bacteria and
the formation of an abscess.
Symptoms range from mild discomfort, particularly on biting,
to significant pain and swelling. Occasionally, the infection
presents as a shadow over the roots on an x-ray with no
associated pain.
UR6 RCT - Bridge abutment |
|
Root canal treatment (RCT) is needed
to remove the damaged tissue, disinfect the root
canal system and restore the tooth to function.
Certain teeth may have complex anatomy
or may be part of a bridge and require careful treatment.
However, current modern day endodontic
practices, such as the use of a microscope which
allows for greater visual access, enables for the
completion of such cases to a high standard as shown
below. |
LR8- Severe root curvature |
|
LL6 - Severe apical curve |
Occasionally RCT is undertaken in a previously
root filled tooth in which the treatment is inadequate
or has failed. The outcome for such cases can be very
favourable and result complete resolution and healing
of large infections as shown below. Where appropriate,
a surgical procedure (apicectomy, root resection) can
be undertaken.
| LR6 Failing RCT
and 14 months later showing complete healing |
What other treatments
are common in endodontics?
Traumatic injuries
The management of accidental traumatic injuries,
particularly in children, is an important aspect of
endodontic practice. The front teeth (incisors) are
often involved and sustain fractures or chipped crowns.
Such teeth require careful monitoring to ensure that
the teeth remain healthy and develop as normal. A decision
may have to be made to perform root canal treatment
to avoid pulp death and infection. Such teeth can be
restored to normal appearance and function.
Bleaching
Endodontically involved or treated teeth may discolour
over time. Where appropriate, bleaching of the tooth
can restore the tooth to its original colour and normal
appearance.
Charges
| Consultation |
|
£85 to 125.00
|
Root Canal Treatments
Incisors/Canines
Premolars
Molars |
from
from
from |
£575.00
£595.00
£750.00 |
| Surgery |
from |
£650 |
Referrals
If you would like to refer a patient, click here.
Ideally, patients are invited to attend for a consultation
appointment. However, it is appreciated that patients
may wish to minimize the number of appointments and
every effort will be made to accommodate them. Normally,
treatments will require a single appointment (90 to
120 minutes) or two 90 minute appointments. Anxious
patients and complex cases may require more time. Treatment
under sedation can be arranged, in conjunction with
an anaesthetist, on site.
The above gives an overview of the possibilities in
Specialist Endodontic Practice at the Dental Rooms.
Please contact us should
you require any further information. |
