Endodontics

Advanced root canal treatments

What is endodontics?

Endodontics, like root canal therapy, is focused on treating the root and pulp of teeth.

Endodontic procedures have been taught to all dentists. However, root canal therapy can be quite complex in some situations. Dentists with a special interest in endodontics have greater training, expertise, and equipment to deal with complex or intricate cases. At our Bexleyheath clinic, we work closely with a dentist with a special interest in endodontics and are able to refer your treatment if it is deemed complex.

Why do I need endodontic treatment?

Endodontics is offered as a treatment option to avoid tooth extraction. As dental professionals, we aim to retain your natural teeth for as long as possible. Endodontics may be a suitable alternative to having a tooth removed.

What conditions does endodontics treatment help with?

Endodontics treat cases that are not suitable for conventional root canal therapy, such as:

• Root canal treatment through indirect restorations such as crowns, bridges, and onlays
• Treatment of sclerosed canals
• Re-RCT where previous treatment was not successful

What are the success rates for endodontic treatment?

In controlled trials, the success percentage of first-time root canal therapy has been found to be 90-95 per cent. However, there is no way to ensure that any medical or dental operation will be effective. Previously treated teeth had a success rate of 50-90 per cent.

Root canal therapy is a delicate and intricate operation, and failure is uncommon (about 5-10% of the time). If this occurs, you may require further treatment and even tooth extraction.