Ever wondered about the different types of root canals? This blog post takes you through various dental procedures, shedding light on options like standard root canals and apicoectomies. Get ready to explore how to maintain optimal oral health!
A root canal treatment is something you might need if you have a badly damaged or infected tooth. The most common type of root canal is the nonsurgical kind. Your dentist will consider doing a root canal before extracting the tooth. You could experience pain or swelling if bacteria in your tooth’s pulp. Your oral health might suffer, and you could become more susceptible to serious health problems if you delay getting a root canal. The dentist will remove the infection from inside your tooth during the procedure. Once the infection is gone, they’ll disinfect the root and seal the space with a filling. After a few weeks, the temporary filling will come out, and you’ll get a permanent crown. To avoid needing a root canal, brush your teeth and maintain good oral hygiene.
What are the types of root canal?
You might encounter various root canal treatments, including nonsurgical root canal treatment, apicoectomy, pulpotomy, and pulpectomy. The most common among these is the nonsurgical root canal treatment. In this procedure, your dentist goes more profound than they would for a regular filling to clean the canal. Another option is an apicoectomy, also known as endodontic microsurgery, where the dentist removes the tip of a tooth’s root and surrounding tissue. If you have a pulpotomy, only part of the tooth’s pulp is removed, and the roots can remain. On the other hand, a pulpectomy is a procedure that involves the complete removal of the pulp from all parts of the tooth, including the roots.
Non-surgical Root Canal Procedure
If you’re looking to safeguard your natural tooth, the most prevalent form of root canal treatment you might consider is the non-surgical procedure. This option is relatively painless and resembles receiving an extensive filling. Your dentist will go beyond the depth of a regular filling to reach the root canal for thorough cleaning.
Apicoectomy Surgery
Apicoectomy, often termed a root-end resection, focuses on the tip of your tooth’s root. It’s also recognized as endodontic microsurgery. When a regular root canal isn’t successful, an apicoectomy becomes necessary. This procedure involves extracting the root tip of the tooth and the tissue around it. Your dentist exposes the gum tissue near the tooth to reveal any infection or gum issues. They’ll then eliminate the damaged tissue and a small portion of the root tip. A filling is placed in the root-end area to prevent future root infections.
Pulpotomy and Pulpectomy
Both pulpotomy and pulpectomy are methods designed to eliminate infected pulp tissue. A pulpotomy specifically involves partially extracting the tooth’s pulp, while the roots can remain in place. Typically performed on children, this procedure aims at preserving the tooth’s function. Common materials like mineral trioxide aggregate, ferric sulfate, and calcium hydroxide are often utilized in pulpotomy treatments. This procedure becomes necessary when decay or injury affects the tooth’s crown.
Similarly, a pulpectomy is also commonly performed on children. However, it involves the complete removal of infected pulp tissue from the tooth’s crown and root. A pulpectomy is recommended to prevent further complications when the infection extends to both parts of the tooth.
Root Canal Retreatment Procedure
In a root canal retreatment, the previous treatment’s materials are removed to ensure thorough root canal cleansing and prevent infection. Your dentist will eliminate any infection in the tooth and introduce fresh filling materials. If you’re dealing with new tooth decay or damage, a root canal retreatment becomes necessary. The procedure can be repeated in up to two or more instances. On average, a root canal retreatment typically takes around 90 minutes to complete.
Waterlase System Laser Dentistry
The WaterLase is a dental laser that does not require your dentist to use a drill or scalpel for your dental care. The WaterLase system uses a water-energized laser beam and is painless. The WaterLase system combines water, air and laser energy to reduce bacteria and remove decay. Use Waterlase if you want a more comfortable and precise procedure.
Purpose of Different Types of Root Canal Procedures
There are various root canal procedures that prioritize patient comfort and oral health. Fluids and soundwaves are used in the GentleWave root canal to remove infected pulp, detritus, and bacteria. This technique is minimally invasive in comparison to conventional treatment. The BIOLASE Waterlase system utilizes light, water, and oxygen to disinfect the root canals of microorganisms. If the treatment conducted on the root apices of an infected tooth failed, endodontic microsurgery is required. In root canal retreatment, the previous root canal filling material is removed, the area is cleansed, and it is refilled with new materials.
What Sets Apart a Pulpectomy from a Root Canal Treatment?
A pulpectomy involves completely removing the pulp from both the crown and roots of the tooth. Once the pulp is taken out, the tooth is filled with suitable material. This procedure is typically carried out on baby teeth. On the other hand, a root canal procedure begins with a pulpectomy, but it goes a step further by adding a crown or another type of restoration to the treated tooth.
Why Isn’t Pulpectomy Termed as Root Canal Therapy?
A pulpectomy entails the comprehensive extraction of pulp from the crown and roots of a tooth. This procedure is primarily conducted on baby teeth. While a root canal also starts with a pulpectomy, it distinguishes itself by including the placement of a crown or alternative restoration on the treated tooth.
Is Opting for Root Canal Retreatment More Favorable Than Tooth Extraction?
Indeed, choosing a root canal retreatment is a superior approach for addressing an infected tooth compared to undergoing extraction. The dentist eliminates any infection within the tooth and introduces fresh filling materials during the root canal retreatment process. Tooth extraction becomes necessary only when your tooth is beyond salvage or significantly decayed.
What else you need to know besides types of Root Canal Treatment?
Beyond understanding the various types of root canal treatments and endodontic therapy, it’s crucial to be aware of potential side effects, aftercare, and the importance of regular dental check-ups to ensure long-term oral health.
Dr. Jacob Vayner from Esthetic Smile Dental Care is an expert dentist renowned for their specialization in root canal treatment. With a keen focus on revitalizing your teeth’s health, Dr. Jacob Vayner is dedicated to providing top-notch care.
