Endodontic Treatment

Endodontic (pulp) treatment involves the partial or total removal of infected or injured pulp tissue. The pulp chamber and root canal(s) are then cleaned and sealed.

Purpose

Clean and/or disinfect the pulp to stop/prevent bacterial infection, and prevent the loss of tooth.

Treatment Procedures

Partial removal of pulp tissues

  • Application

    • Deciduous teeth that have vital pulp tissues.

      Photograph of an x-ray film indicating a deciduous molar with vital pulp.Before treatment
      Photograph of an x-ray film indicating a deciduous molar with partial removal of pulp tissues.After treatment

  • Procedures for partial removal of pulp tissues.

    • Remove tissues inside the pulp chamber.
    • Rinse and clean the pulp chamber.
    • Place appropriate medication in the pulp cavity.

    • Fill the pulp cavity.

      Animation showing the process of partial removal of pulp tissues.

Total removal of pulp tissues

  • Application

    • Deciduous teeth with non-vital pulp tissues

      Photograph of an x-ray film indicating a non-vital pulp.Before treatment
      Photograph of an x-ray film indicating a total removal of pulp tissues for a deciduous molar.After treatment

    • Permanent teeth with non-vital pulp tissues

      Photograph of an x-ray film indicating a permanent incisor with non-vital pulp.Before treatment
      Photograph of an x-ray film indicating a total removal of pulp tissues for a permanent incisor.After treatment

  • Procedures for total removal of pulp tissues

    • Remove tissues inside the pulp chamber.
    • Remove tissues inside root canals.
    • Clean the pulp chamber and root canals thoroughly.
    • Place appropriate medication in the pulp cavity.
    • Fill and seal the root canal(s) and the pulp cavity.

    If the tooth structure is too weak after treatment, extra protection is needed by putting on a crown.

    Animation showing the process of a total removal of pulp tissues.

Points to note on pulp treatment

  • It requires a few visits to the dentist to complete a pulp treatment; remember to keep the appointments for treatments.
  • See the dentist immediately if the temporary filling material has fallen off, in order to prevent bacteria in the saliva from entering the pulp chamber.
  • If local anaesthesia is used, do not bite your lips or tongue before the numbness has completely worn off.