Name of the Procedure:

Endodontic Therapy (D3310)
Common Names: Root Canal Therapy, Root Canal Treatment
Medical Terms: Endodontic Therapy, Pulpectomy

Summary

Endodontic Therapy, also known as a Root Canal, is a dental procedure aimed at treating issues within the tooth's pulp cavity. This process involves removing the infected or damaged pulp tissue, cleaning the inside of the tooth, and sealing it to prevent future infections.

Purpose

Endodontic therapy addresses issues such as:

• Deep tooth decay that has reached the pulp,
• Cracked or damaged teeth,
• Infections or abscesses at the root of the tooth.

The primary goals are to save the natural tooth, alleviate pain, eliminate infection, and prevent further dental problems.

Indications

Symptoms and conditions warranting Endodontic Therapy include:

• Severe tooth pain when chewing or applying pressure,
• Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold,
• Discoloration of the tooth,
• Swelling and tenderness in nearby gums,
• Persistent or recurrent abscesses on the gums.

It is appropriate for patients showing signs of pulp infection or significant tooth damage.

Preparation

• Thorough dental evaluation and X-rays to assess the extent of damage,
• Discussion of medical history and any current medications,
• Typically, no major fasting or adjustments in medication are required, but specific instructions may be given based on individual conditions.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the tooth and surrounding area.
2. Access and Cleaning: An opening is made in the crown of the tooth. Special instruments are used to remove the diseased pulp and clean the root canal system thoroughly.
3. Shaping: The canals are shaped and enlarged to allow them to be filled properly.
4. Filling: The cleaned canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. The filling is then sealed with adhesive cement to ensure a tight fit.
5. Restoration: The tooth is temporarily closed with a filling, and later, a crown or other restoration is placed to protect and restore the tooth's full function.

Tools and Equipment: Hand files, rotary instruments, electronic apex locators, X-rays, filling materials.
Anesthesia: Typically, local anesthesia is used.

Duration

The procedure generally takes about 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case.

Setting

Endodontic Therapy is usually performed in a dental office or an outpatient clinic.

Personnel

The procedure is conducted by a dentist or an endodontist, supported by a dental assistant or hygienist.

Risks and Complications

Common risks may include:

• Mild pain or discomfort after the procedure,
• Swelling or infection,
• Tooth fracture.

Rare complications could involve:

• Persistent infection requiring retreatment,
• Reaction to anesthesia,
• Incomplete healing or failure of the procedure.

Benefits

The benefits of Endodontic Therapy include:

• Relief from pain and infection,
• Preservation of the natural tooth,
• Restoration of normal chewing and biting.

Patients often start to feel relief within a few days, and the full benefits are realized once the final restoration is in place.

Recovery

• Mild discomfort is expected for a few days, manageable with over-the-counter pain medication.
• Maintain good oral hygiene.
• Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it's fully restored with a crown or permanent filling.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and place the final restoration.

Alternatives

• Tooth extraction followed by a dental implant, bridge, or partial denture.
• Pulp capping and pulpotomy, though usually less definitive than a root canal.

Alternatives may involve pros and cons like permanence, cost, and complexity compared to Endodontic Therapy.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient may experience pressure but should not feel pain due to anesthesia. Post-procedure, there may be some sensitivity and discomfort, which can be managed with medication and proper care. Comfort measures include ice packs for swelling and soft food diets during initial recovery.