What is endodontics?
Endodontics focuses on the inside of the tooth, especially the dental pulp and root canals. Root canal treatment aims to relieve pain and save the natural tooth whenever possible.
When is
endodontic
treatment needed?
Root canal treatment may be indicated when:
- the pulp is inflamed or infected;
- deep decay reaches the nerve;
- trauma has damaged the tooth;
- a previous treatment needs revision.
How does
endodontic treatment work?
Root canal therapy follows precise steps:
- Examination and diagnosis (often with imaging);
- Local anaesthesia and isolation of the tooth;
- Cleaning and shaping of the canals;
- Disinfection and canal filling;
- Final restoration to protect the tooth.
What is endodontic
retreatment?
When a previous endodontic treatment has not fully eliminated the pulp infection or achieved a sound canal filling, the specialist may propose endodontic retreatment (also called canal retreatment) to restore a favourable biological environment for the tooth.
This procedure involves:
- removing the old canal filling,
- cleaning the inside of the tooth and roots again,
- eliminating infected or necrotic tissue,
- disinfecting the root canals,
- placing a new hermetic filling to prevent recurrence.
Retreatment is often indicated for persistent pain, an apical lesion, or when a bacterial infection reappears. It increases the chances of saving the natural tooth and avoiding extraction.
The benefits
of endodontic treatments
Endodontic treatments offer many advantages:
- Preserving the patient’s natural tooth,
- Eliminating pain and pulp infection,
- Preventing inflammation from spreading to peri-apical tissues,
- Restoring dental function and comfort in the mouth,
- Maintaining long-term oral health.
Thanks to advances in endodontic techniques, these treatments are today reliable, efficient and performed under optimal quality conditions.
How does our Saint-Louis practice
meet your needs?
Our experienced team uses modern equipment (including optical aids when needed) for precise, comfortable endodontic care.
Is endodontic treatment painful?
With effective local anaesthesia, treatment is generally comfortable. Mild sensitivity afterwards is common and temporary.
When should I see an endodontist?
An endodontist is recommended in complex cases: calcified root canals, endodontic retreatment, apical surgery, or a necrotic tooth with an abscess. The general dentist then refers the patient to this specialist to ensure treatment success.
