Endodontics is a specialized field of dentistry focused on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and injuries affecting the dental pulp and the surrounding tissues of the tooth. The dental pulp is the innermost part of a tooth, comprising nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue.
Endodontic procedures are best known for root canal therapy, which involves removing the infected or damaged pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the interior of the tooth, and then sealing it to prevent future infections. This procedure is essential for preserving the natural tooth and alleviating pain caused by pulpitis or severe decay.
Endodontists, the specialists in this field, undergo extensive training beyond dental school to handle complex cases involving tooth trauma, re-treatment of previously performed root canals, and surgical interventions like apicoectomy (surgical removal of the tip of the tooth root).
Overall, endodontics plays a crucial role in dental health, helping to save teeth that might otherwise need extraction and ensuring a patient’s comfort and overall oral health.