Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is an essential procedure to save teeth affected by severe infection or damage to the pulp (the nerves and blood vessels inside the tooth). This procedure is commonly performed by a specialist in conservative dentistry when the damage is too deep to be resolved with a regular filling.
Why Is Root Canal Treatment Necessary?
When the pulp becomes infected due to deep cavities or trauma, patients often experience intense pain, sensitivity, and sometimes swelling. If left untreated, the infection may spread to the tissues surrounding the tooth root, leading to abscesses. Root canal treatment is performed to remove the infected tissue, clean the root canals, and seal them to prevent reinfection.
Steps in Root Canal Treatment
The procedure generally involves several stages:
- Diagnosis and X-ray: The dentist examines the tooth and takes an X-ray to determine the extent of the infection.
- Anesthesia and Isolation: Local anesthesia is applied, and a rubber dam is placed to keep the area sterile.
- Cleaning the Root Canal: A small opening is made in the tooth, and the infected pulp is removed with special instruments called files.
- Filling and Sealing: Once the canals are clean and dry, they are filled with a material such as gutta-percha and permanently sealed.
The Role of Nickel-Titanium Technology in Root Canal Therapy
Advancements in dental technology continue to improve both the effectiveness and efficiency of treatment. One example is the use of rotary nickel-titanium files for root canal preparation. Research conducted at the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), shows that the geometric design of these files significantly affects cutting efficiency, flexibility, and the risk of canal deviation.
According to studies by Dr. drg. Wignyo Hadriyanto, M.S., Sp.KG(K), Prof. Dr. drg. Widowati Siswomihardjo, M.S., and drg. Margareta Rinastiti, M.Kes., Ph.D., Sp.KG(K), nickel-titanium’s flexibility allows dentists to clean root canals more accurately, even in extreme curvatures, while reducing the risk of instrument breakage inside the tooth.
After the Procedure: What Should Patients Do?
Patients may experience mild discomfort for a few days following the treatment. Dentists often prescribe pain relievers or antibiotics if needed. It is important to protect a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy, usually by placing a dental crown to prevent fragility or fracture.
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Root canal therapy is an important procedure to preserve severely damaged teeth. With technological advancements such as the use of optimally designed nickel-titanium files, the process is now safer and more efficient. Regular dental checkups can help detect damage early and prevent further complications.
References
Dr. drg. Wignyo Hadriyanto, M.S., Sp.KG(K), Prof. Dr. drg. Widowati Siswomihardjo, M.S.,; drg. Margareta Rinastiti, M.Kes., Ph.D. Sp.KG(K), The Role of Rotary Nickel-Titanium File Geometry in Root Canal Preparation (In Silico Study), https://etd.repository.ugm.ac.id/penelitian/detail/214696
