Root Canal Therapy: A Journey to Revitalize Smiles

Root canal therapy—a phrase that often invokes apprehension and myths. However, behind the stigma lies a transformative dental procedure that holds the power to rescue teeth from pain, infection, and potential loss. Let's embark on a journey into the world of root canal therapy, unraveling the misconceptions and shedding light on the remarkable ability of this procedure to revitalize smiles.

Demystifying the Dread: Root Canal Therapy Unveiled

Root canal therapy, often abbreviated as RCT, is a dental procedure designed to treat the innermost part of a tooth, known as the dental pulp. Contrary to popular belief, RCT is not a source of pain but a remedy for it. The procedure is initiated when the dental pulp becomes inflamed or infected due to deep decay, cracks, trauma, or repeated dental procedures.

The Anatomy of a Tooth: Understanding the Root Canal System

Within each tooth lies a complex network of tiny canals that house nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues collectively known as the dental pulp. The health of this pulp is vital for the tooth's vitality, but when compromised, it can lead to severe pain and, if left untreated, may result in the loss of the tooth.

Signs and Symptoms: Knowing When RCT is Needed

The need for root canal therapy often manifests through unmistakable signs and symptoms. Persistent and severe toothache, heightened sensitivity to hot or cold stimuli, swelling of the gums, and discoloration of the affected tooth are common indicators that dental intervention, specifically RCT, may be necessary.

Precision Diagnosis: The Role of Technology in RCT

Modern dentistry embraces advanced diagnostic tools, and root canal therapy is no exception. Digital imaging, including X-rays and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), allows dentists to visualize the internal structures of teeth with remarkable precision. Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of successful root canal therapy.

The Root Canal Procedure: A Meticulous Process

Root canal therapy is a multi-step procedure aimed at removing the infected or inflamed pulp, cleaning and shaping the root canals, and finally sealing the space to prevent further infection. Despite its complexity, advancements in dental technology and techniques have streamlined the process, making RCT more efficient and comfortable for patients.

Comfort is Key: Anesthesia and Sedation in RCT

To ensure patient comfort during the procedure, local anesthesia is administered to numb the affected tooth and surrounding tissues. Additionally, for individuals who may experience anxiety or apprehension, sedation options are available to create a more relaxed and stress-free environment.

Preserving Teeth, Restoring Function: The Aftermath of RCT

Once the root canal therapy is complete, the tooth is often capped with a crown to restore its strength and appearance. Crowns provide protection against further damage and allow the tooth to resume normal function within the oral cavity. With proper care and maintenance, a tooth that has undergone successful RCT can last a lifetime.

Dispelling Myths: Root Canal Therapy as a Smile Savior

Root canal therapy is often surrounded by myths that portray it as a painful and daunting experience. In reality, RCT is a procedure designed to alleviate pain, not induce it. With advancements in anesthesia, technology, and techniques, the discomfort associated with RCT is minimized, and the benefits far outweigh any misconceptions.

Empowering Smiles: The Positive Impact of RCT on Oral Health

Root canal therapy is more than a dental procedure; it's a transformative journey that empowers smiles to regain their health and vitality. By preserving natural teeth and preventing the need for extraction, RCT plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the oral structure and enhancing overall oral health.

In conclusion, root canal therapy emerges as a beacon of hope for individuals grappling with dental pain and the potential loss of a tooth. By demystifying the procedure, dispelling myths, and embracing the transformative power of RCT, we pave the way for smiles to be revitalized, one root canal at a time.

Common Dental Problems: Prevention and Solutions

Good oral health is essential for overall well-being. However, many people neglect their dental health, leading to various dental problems. In this blog, we will discuss some common dental problems and their prevention and solutions.

1. Tooth decay: Tooth decay is one of the most common dental problems. It occurs when plaque builds up on the teeth, producing acids that eat away at the enamel. To prevent tooth decay, maintain good oral hygiene, brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and limit sugary foods and drinks. If you do have tooth decay, your dentist can treat it with a filling or crown.

2. Gum disease: Gum disease is a common problem caused by bacteria in the mouth that leads to inflammation and infection of the gums. To prevent gum disease, maintain good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing. If you have gum disease, your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning or scaling and root planing to remove the bacteria and promote gum healing.

3. Tooth sensitivity: Tooth sensitivity is a common problem characterized by sharp pain when the teeth are exposed to certain stimuli, such as cold or hot temperatures. To prevent tooth sensitivity, avoid acidic foods and drinks, brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush, and use desensitizing toothpaste. If you have tooth sensitivity, your dentist may recommend a fluoride treatment or dental bonding.

4. Bad breath: Bad breath, or halitosis, is a common problem caused by poor dental hygiene, gum disease, or certain medical conditions. To prevent bad breath, brush and floss regularly, use a tongue scraper, and avoid smoking and foods with strong odors. If you have persistent bad breath, consult with your dentist to identify the underlying cause.

5. Oral cancer: Oral cancer is a serious disease that can be life-threatening. To prevent oral cancer, avoid tobacco use, limit alcohol consumption, and maintain good oral hygiene. Your dentist can perform regular oral cancer screenings to detect any signs of the disease.

Good oral hygiene is essential for preventing common dental problems. By maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding harmful habits, and visiting your dentist regularly, you can prevent and treat dental problems and enjoy a healthy smile.

How to Care for Your Teeth After Endodontic Treatment

If you've recently undergone endodontic treatment, such as a root canal, it's important to take proper care of your teeth to ensure the best possible outcome. Here are some tips on how to care for your teeth after endodontic treatment:

1. Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for the long-term health of your teeth. Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove any food particles and plaque that can cause tooth decay and gum disease.

2. Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods

After endodontic treatment, your tooth may be more vulnerable to damage, so it's best to avoid hard or sticky foods that can cause it to crack or break. Opt for softer foods, and chew on the opposite side of your mouth to avoid putting pressure on the treated tooth.

3. Attend Follow-Up Appointments

Your dentist will likely schedule follow-up appointments to check the progress of the treated tooth and ensure that it's healing properly. Attend these appointments as recommended to prevent any potential problems and address any concerns you may have.

4. Wear a Mouthguard

If you engage in sports or other physical activities that could potentially damage your teeth, wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth, including the treated tooth.

5. Report Any Problems to Your Dentist

If you experience any pain, swelling, or discomfort after endodontic treatment, report it to your dentist immediately. These could be signs of complications that need to be addressed promptly to prevent further damage or infection.

Taking proper care of your teeth after endodontic treatment is essential for the long-term health of your teeth. By practicing good oral hygiene, avoiding hard or sticky foods, attending follow-up appointments, wearing a mouthguard, and reporting any problems to your dentist, you can help ensure the best possible outcome and maintain optimal oral health.

What to Expect During an Endodontic Procedure: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you've been told that you need an endodontic procedure, such as a root canal, you may be wondering what to expect during the procedure. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you understand what happens during an endodontic procedure.

Step 1: Anesthesia

Before the procedure begins, the dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the affected area. You may also be given sedation options to help you relax and feel more comfortable during the procedure.

Step 2: Access to the Root Canal

Once you are numb and comfortable, the dentist will create a small access hole in the top of the tooth to gain access to the root canal. This will allow the dentist to remove the infected or damaged tissue.

Step 3: Removal of Infected Tissue

Using specialized tools, the dentist will remove the infected or damaged tissue from inside the root canal. This may involve cleaning and shaping the canal to remove any bacteria or debris.

Step 4: Filling the Canal

After the canal has been cleaned and shaped, the dentist will fill it with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. This will seal the canal and prevent further infection.

Step 5: Restoration of the Tooth

Once the root canal procedure is complete, the dentist will restore the tooth with a filling or crown to protect it from further damage and restore its function.

Step 6: Follow-up Care

After the procedure, the dentist will provide instructions for care and follow-up appointments to ensure that the tooth is healing properly and to monitor its long-term health.

An endodontic procedure, such as a root canal, can help to alleviate pain and save a damaged or infected tooth. By understanding what to expect during the procedure, you can feel more informed and confident in your treatment choices. Talk to your dentist about any questions or concerns you may have about the procedure, and follow their instructions for care and follow-up appointments to ensure the best possible outcome.

The Role of Endodontics in Maintaining Dental Health

Endodontics plays a vital role in maintaining dental health. It involves the diagnosis and treatment of dental pulp and surrounding tissues, which are essential for the health and function of teeth. Here are some of the ways that endodontics helps to maintain dental health.

1. Preserving Natural Teeth: Endodontic treatment, such as a root canal, can help to save a natural tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted. This preserves the natural structure and function of the tooth and helps to maintain the integrity of the surrounding teeth and tissues.

2. Treating Infection and Inflammation: When the dental pulp becomes infected or inflamed, it can cause pain, swelling, and other symptoms. Endodontic treatment removes the damaged or infected pulp, eliminates the source of the infection or inflammation, and promotes healing.

3. Preventing Further Damage: If left untreated, dental infections or inflammation can spread to other parts of the body, causing serious health problems. Endodontic treatment prevents the spread of infection and inflammation, reducing the risk of complications and promoting overall health.

4. Restoring Function and Appearance: Endodontic treatment restores the function and appearance of the tooth, allowing patients to chew, speak, and smile with confidence. This improves their quality of life and overall well-being.

5. Improving Oral Health: Maintaining good oral health is essential for overall health. Endodontics plays a crucial role in preventing and treating dental problems, promoting oral health, and contributing to overall well-being.

Endodontics is an important part of maintaining dental health. By preserving natural teeth, treating infection and inflammation, preventing further damage, restoring function and appearance, and improving oral health, endodontics helps to promote overall well-being and quality of life.

The Latest Advancements in Endodontic Technology and Treatment

Endodontics, the branch of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of dental pulp and surrounding tissues, has seen significant advancements in technology and treatment in recent years. Here are some of the latest advancements in endodontic technology and treatment.

1. Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT): CBCT is a type of imaging technology that produces 3D images of the teeth and surrounding structures. It is especially useful for endodontic treatment because it allows endodontists to visualize the internal structures of teeth more accurately, improving the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment planning.

2. Digital Radiography: Digital radiography uses electronic sensors instead of traditional film to produce dental x-rays. It offers several advantages over traditional x-rays, including reduced radiation exposure and faster image processing.

3. Electronic Apex Locators (EALs): EALs are devices that use electronic signals to measure the length of the root canal accurately. They improve the accuracy of endodontic treatment, reducing the risk of complications and increasing the success rate of the procedure.

4. Rotary Endodontic Instruments: Rotary instruments are specialized tools that use a rotating motion to remove the damaged or infected pulp from the root canal. They are faster and more efficient than traditional hand instruments, reducing the time and discomfort associated with endodontic treatment.

5. Regenerative Endodontics: Regenerative endodontics is a new field that focuses on regrowing damaged or infected pulp tissue. It involves the use of specialized materials and techniques to stimulate the growth of new pulp tissue, potentially restoring the health and function of the tooth.

These advancements in endodontic technology and treatment have improved the accuracy, efficiency, and success of endodontic treatment. By staying up-to-date with the latest technology and techniques, endodontists can provide their patients with the highest quality of care and preserve the health and function of their natural teeth.

How to Choose the Right Endodontist for Your Root Canal Treatment

Choosing the right endodontist for your root canal treatment is an important decision that can affect the success of your treatment and your overall dental health. Here are some factors to consider when choosing an endodontist.

1. Education and Experience: It is important to choose an endodontist who has completed specialized education and training in endodontics. Look for an endodontist who is board-certified or has undergone advanced training in the field. Additionally, experience matters when it comes to endodontic treatment. Consider an endodontist who has a track record of successful treatments and positive patient outcomes.

2. Technology and Equipment: Endodontic treatment requires advanced technology and equipment to ensure successful treatment outcomes. Look for an endodontist who uses state-of-the-art technology and equipment, such as digital x-rays, cone beam CT scans, and microscopes, to ensure precise and accurate treatment.

3. Comfort and Communication: Going through a root canal treatment can be a daunting experience. Look for an endodontist who puts your comfort and well-being first. A good endodontist should communicate clearly and compassionately, explaining your treatment options and answering your questions to help you feel comfortable and informed throughout the process.

4. Referrals and Reviews: One way to find a reputable endodontist is to ask for referrals from your dentist or other trusted healthcare professionals. Additionally, online reviews from other patients can provide valuable insights into an endodontist's quality of care and patient satisfaction.

5. Location and Accessibility: Finally, consider the location and accessibility of the endodontist's office. Look for an endodontist who is conveniently located and easily accessible, particularly if you need to schedule multiple appointments or have mobility issues.

Choosing the right endodontist for your root canal treatment can make a big difference in the success of your treatment and your overall dental health. By considering these factors, you can find a qualified and compassionate endodontist who will provide you with the highest quality of care.

What is Endodontics? An Introduction to Root Canal Treatment

Endodontics is a branch of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of dental pulp and surrounding tissues. The dental pulp is the soft, innermost part of a tooth that contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. When the dental pulp becomes inflamed or infected, it can lead to a painful condition known as pulpitis.

One common treatment for pulpitis is root canal therapy, also known as a root canal. During a root canal, the damaged or infected pulp is removed from the tooth, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned, shaped, and filled with a special material. The tooth is then restored with a filling or a crown to protect it from further damage.

Root canal treatment may be necessary when a cavity is left untreated or when a tooth is injured, cracked, or has deep decay. Symptoms of pulpitis may include pain, swelling, sensitivity to hot or cold, and discoloration of the tooth.

Many people are afraid of root canals because they believe they are painful, but modern techniques and anesthesia make the procedure relatively painless. In fact, most people report feeling relief from pain and discomfort after root canal treatment.

It is important to seek treatment for pulpitis or other endodontic problems as soon as possible, as untreated infections can lead to serious health problems, including tooth loss and systemic infections.

If you are experiencing tooth pain or other symptoms, talk to your dentist about whether endodontic treatment may be necessary. With prompt treatment, you can relieve your pain and preserve your natural teeth for years to come.

The power of panoramic x-rays

X-rays are extremely valuable for helping dentists identify issues that may not show up on normal oral examination.

The three most common types of dental X-rays are the bitewing, periapical and panoramic X-rays.

Panoramic X-rays give a broad overview of the entire mouth – supplying information about the teeth, upper and lower jawbone, sinuses, and other hard and soft tissues of the head and neck.

Unlike other X-rays, where the film is placed inside the patient’s mouth, the panoramic film is contained in a machine that moves around the patient’s head. So they are very easy to use.

Panoramic X-rays are often used to check wisdom teeth but they will also reveal deep cavities and gum disease. They are also useful to help patients with past or present jaw problems or those who require full or partial removable dentures, dental implants, or braces.

They can also be valuable in assisting people who are suspected of having oral cancer or have had recent trauma to the face or teeth.

Panoramic X-rays play an important role in thorough dental examinations and are recommended at least every five years or so for most patients.

Endodontic Retreatment: A Guide to Saving Your Previously Treated Tooth

Endodontic retreatment is a procedure that is used to save a tooth that has previously been treated with a root canal. It is necessary when the original root canal treatment has failed or when new problems have developed with the treated tooth. Here is a guide to endodontic retreatment and how it can help you save your previously treated tooth.

What is endodontic retreatment?

Endodontic retreatment is a procedure that is used to save a tooth that has previously been treated with a root canal. It involves removing the filling material from the inside of the tooth and cleaning and disinfecting the root canal system. A new filling material is then placed inside the tooth to restore its function and to prevent the spread of infection.

Why is endodontic retreatment necessary?

Endodontic retreatment is necessary when the original root canal treatment has failed or when new problems have developed with the treated tooth. This can be due to a new infection, a crack or fracture in the tooth, or a new cavity. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other teeth or to other parts of the body, causing serious health problems.

What happens during an endodontic retreatment?

During an endodontic retreatment, your endodontist will numb the area around the affected tooth and create an opening in the filling material that was placed during the original root canal treatment. The filling material is then removed and the inside of the root canal system is cleaned and disinfected. A new filling material is then placed inside the tooth to restore its function and to prevent the spread of infection.

How long does it take to recover from endodontic retreatment?

Most people recover from endodontic retreatment within a few days to a week. Your endodontist will provide you with specific instructions for caring for your tooth after the procedure, including avoiding certain foods and drinks and taking pain medication as needed. You may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity in the treated tooth for a short period of time, but this should subside as you recover.

In conclusion, endodontic retreatment is a procedure that is used to save a tooth that has previously been treated with a root canal. It is necessary when the original root canal treatment has failed or when new problems have developed with the treated tooth. With proper care and follow-up, an endodontically retreated tooth can function normally for many years, helping you to maintain good oral health and a beautiful smile.

Root canal treatment

Root canal therapy is an important treatment that can save a tooth with a diseased nerve and which in the past would probably have needed to be removed.

Inside each tooth is the ‘pulp’ which runs like a thread down through the root and provides nutrients and nerves to the tooth. It is the soft tissue that contains nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue.

If the pulp is diseased or injured, the pulp tissue dies.

The most common cause of pulp death is a cracked tooth or a deep cavity. Both of these problems can let bacteria enter the pulp.

So, if you don’t remove it, your tooth gets infected and you could lose it.

After the dentist – or endodontist (a dentist who specializes in problems of the pulp) – removes the pulp, the root canal is cleaned and sealed off to protect it. Then your dentist places a crown over the tooth to help make it stronger.

Most of the time, a root canal is a relatively simple procedure involving one to three visits with little or no discomfort.

Your restored tooth could last a lifetime, if you continue to care for your teeth and gums and enjoy regular checkups.

What to do if your tooth cracks

While our teeth are normally very strong, they can crack for a number of reasons.

Reasons could include tooth decay, trauma/injury, grinding of the teeth or a stress fracture.

Sometimes, our jaw may be stronger than our teeth and the teeth can fracture when we bite heavily on food.

We can protect our teeth in some circumstances – for example it may be advisable to wear a mouthguard during sports.

Taking proper care of the teeth and regular visits to the dentist will help keep your teeth in good shape.

If a tooth cracks, it may become painful if the nerve is exposed and the area can become tender.

If this happens, rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Then call your dentist immediately.

Treatment will depend on where the tooth has fractured, how close it is to the nerve and the overall condition of the tooth.

A cracked tooth may be repaired with silver alloy, gold, porcelain or plastic. Or it may require a crown or overlay or bonding, which applies porcelain or enamel to the fractured tooth.

If you contact your dentist quickly, they will be able to take the most approriate action to preserve the tooth as much as possible.

How smoking affects your teeth

While the general effects of smoking on your health are well-known, it can also have significant effects on your oral health.

Here are some of the ways smoking can harm your oral health and hygiene:

– Oral Cancer
– Periodontal (gum) disease
– Delayed healing after a tooth extraction or other oral surgery
– Bad breath
– Stained teeth and tongue
– Diminished sense of taste and smell

Research suggests that smoking may be responsible for almost 75% of adult gum disease.

Tobacco products damage your gum tissue by affecting the attachment of bone and soft tissue to your teeth. One effect is receding gums which expose the tooth roots and increase your risk of tooth decay or to sensitivity to hot and cold in these unprotected areas.

Cigar smoking is equally a major risk and even smokeless tobacco products contain a variety of toxins associated with cancer. Smokeless tobacco can also irritate your gum tissue.

Giving up smoking will provide a significant boost to your oral health as well as giving you the chance to live longer.

Choosing the right mouthwash to meet your needs

These days many people like to use a mouthwash and there is a huge range of options to choose from.

The key to choosing the right one for your needs is being clear about what you are using it for.

Many people opt for mouthwash because they want to have fresh breath.

But many mouthwashes contain alcohol which can cause the mouth to dry. It’s best to minimize the chances of suffering from dry mouth as it can increase your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Therefore if you want fresh breath, a breath spray or drops may meet your needs better.

Another reason for using mouthwash is when you’ve been told you have a gum disease such as gingivitis. In this case, you’ll need to choose a mouthwash that contains ingredients known to kill the bacteria that cause gingivitis.

If you like to use a mouthwash that improves your oral health, use one that contains fluoride.

Read the directions of your mouthwash and make sure you spit it out.

Don’t assume that the most expensive mouthwashes are best. Think carefully about your needs and check the ingredients.

Your dentist will be able to advise you on the best choice of mouthwash.

Diagnosing jaw problems and pains – TMD and TMJ

 More than fifteen percent of American adults suffer from chronic facial pain.

Common symptoms can include pain in or around the ear, tenderness of the jaw, clicking or popping noises when opening the mouth or even head and neck aches.

There are two joints and several jaw muscles which make it possible to open and close the mouth. They work together when you chew, speak, and swallow.

These structures include muscles and ligaments, as well as the jaw bone, the mandible (lower jaw) with two joints, the TMJ’s.

The TM joint is one of the most complex joints in the body. Located on each side of the head, these joints work together and can make many different movements, including a combination of rotating and gliding action when chewing and speaking.

Several muscles help open and close the mouth. They control the lower jaw (mandible) as it moves forward, backward, and side-to-side.

Both TM joints are involved in these movements. Each TM joint has a disc between the ball and socket. The disc cushions the load while enabling the jaw to open widely and perform rotating and translocational movements.

Any problem that prevents this complex system of muscles, ligaments, discs and bones from working together properly may result in a painful TMJ disorder.

If you are suffering from this type of pain, your dentist can help identify its source with a thorough exam and appropriate x-rays.

Often, the problem is a sinus or toothache or it could be an early stage of periodontal disease.

But for some pain, the cause is not so easily diagnosed.

The pain could be related to the facial muscles, the jaw or temporomandibular joint, located in the front of the ear.

Treatments for this pain may include stress reducing exercises, muscle relaxants, or wearing a mouth protector to prevent teeth grinding.
They’ve been successful for many and your dentist can recommend which is best for you.

How sedation and general anesthesia can make your visit to the dentist easier

 While local anesthetics are often used in dental treatment, there is sometimes a need for anti-anxiety agents – such as nitrous oxide – or sedatives to help people relax during dental visits.

Dentists may use these agents to induce “minimal or moderate sedation”.

In this case, the patient reaches a relaxed state during treatment but can respond to speech or touch.

Sedatives can be administered before, during or after dental procedures by mouth, inhalation or injection.

More complex treatments may require drugs that can induce “deep sedation”.

This reduces consciousness and causes a loss of feeling which helps to reduce both pain and anxiety.

Sometimes patients undergo “general anesthesia” where the drugs lead to a temporary loss of consciousness.

A dentist may recommend deep sedation or general anesthesia for certain procedures with children or with adults who have severe anxiety or for people who have difficulty controlling their movements.

While these techniques to control pain and anxiety are used to treat tens of millions of patients safely every year, it’s important that you let your dentist know anything that might affect your ability to benefit from them for example, tell them about any illnesses or health conditions, whether you are taking any medications and if you’ve had any problems with allergic reactions to medications.

What dentists are doing to improve services for older adults

As people are living longer and enjoying good health for many years, dentists are increasingly offering improved services to recognize the special needs of older adults.

This growing segment of the population is wearing fewer dentures and they are keeping their natural teeth longer. They are also concerned to maintain good health and a great smile for many years.

However, patients in this group sometimes require special consideration because reduced mobility and dexterity may make daily oral hygiene difficult.

And certain medical conditions and impairment may make them more anxious when visiting the dentist.

For example, problems with vision or hearing loss may cause worry. Always let the dentist and staff know if you have any concerns so that they can adjust their treatment and their pace to meet your needs.

Older patients can sometimes put up with problems such as toothaches, bleeding gums and clicking dentures because they are not aware of the wide range of treatments and techniques now available.

Dentists are increasingly sensitive to the special needs of and the importance of dental health in the older patient.

As many older patients are more health conscious than ever before, regular visits to the dentist ensure their oral health is an important part of their overall health.

Root canal treatment

Root canal therapy is an important treatment that can save a tooth with a diseased nerve and which in the past would probably have needed to be removed.

Inside each tooth is the ‘pulp’ which runs like a thread down through the root and provides nutrients and nerves to the tooth. It is the soft tissue that contains nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue.

If the pulp is diseased or injured, the pulp tissue dies.

The most common cause of pulp death is a cracked tooth or a deep cavity. Both of these problems can let bacteria enter the pulp.

So, if you don’t remove it, your tooth gets infected and you could lose it.

After the dentist – or endodontist (a dentist who specializes in problems of the pulp) – removes the pulp, the root canal is cleaned and sealed off to protect it. Then your dentist places a crown over the tooth to help make it stronger.

Most of the time, a root canal is a relatively simple procedure involving one to three visits with little or no discomfort.

Your restored tooth could last a lifetime, if you continue to care for your teeth and gums and enjoy regular checkups.

Different types of fillings and restorations

Nowadays, thanks to advances in dental techniques and materials, patients have a much wider range of choices when they have to repair missing, worn, damaged or decayed teeth.

For example, materials such as ceramics and polymer compounds that look more like natural teeth help dentists create pleasing, natural-looking smiles.

The traditional materials such as gold, base metal alloys and dental amalgam are still widely used as they have many advantages.

The strength and durability of traditional dental materials continues to make them useful in many situations. For example, they are good when fillings are required in the back teeth because the pressure of chewing is high in that area.

The choice of the best option will depend on several factors such as the patient’s oral and general health, where and how the filling is placed and the number of visits needed to prepare and adjust the restored tooth.

The choice about which option is best depends on each individual’s needs so you should discuss the options with your dentist.

Treating Sensitive Teeth

Sensitive teeth is a common problem that causes many people to feel discomfort with hot or cold foods and drinks.

It can also make it uncomfortable to brush or floss the teeth and therefore can lead to further oral problems.

However, sensitive teeth can be treated.

If you suffer from this, your dentist may suggest that you try a desensitizing toothpaste, which contains compounds that help block transmission of sensation from the tooth surface to the nerve.

For desensitizing toothpaste to work, you normally have to make several applications.

If the desensitizing toothpaste does not help, your dentist may suggest further solutions.

For example, fluoride gel – which strengthens tooth enamel and reduces the transmission of sensations – may be applied to the sensitive areas of the teeth.

If the sensitivity is caused by receding gums, your dentist may use bonding agents that “seal” the sensitive teeth.

The sealer is usually made of a plastic material.

If there is severe hypersensitivity which cannot be treated by other means, there is the option of endodontic (root canal) treatment.

Sensitive teeth is a problem that can stop you enjoying your food but is one that can often be solved.