The core of a tooth consists of nerves and blood vessels. These enter through tiny canals in the roots. The number of roots and canals varies depending on the tooth type and can sometimes vary from person to person. Damage to a tooth can cause inflammation of the dental pulp. In many cases, this is combined with a bacterial infection. Laser Assisted Root Canal Treatment, It can be used as an effective solution in such cases. The most common causes of pulpal inflammation are:

• deep tooth decay (dental cavities);
• trauma (including trauma from an extensive dental restoration);
• impaired structural integrity (a crack or fracture of the tooth).

Because the roots of teeth are surrounded by hard tissue (bone), the swelling that accompanies inflammation causes pressure buildup, manifesting as pain. This is called pulpitis. In some cases, if the pulp is not completely covered by the hard dental tissue, pain may be minimal or absent, and pulpitis may go unnoticed.

As inflammation progresses, blood vessels in the pulp can no longer maintain their normal function and begin to die, along with nerve degeneration, leading to loss of tooth vitality. In many cases, this is coupled with a bacterial infection that initially resides in the pulp space but can easily spread through the canals in the tooth roots. At this stage, the pain may disappear completely, but the disease actually progresses.

This can be a slow process and may go unnoticed for some time. It may manifest as a varying degree of discomfort when pressure is applied to the tooth, during normal function, or when the teeth are clenched together. The tooth may also become slightly darker.

In more serious cases, the infection may manifest as localized swelling around the tooth, a small blister visible in the gum, or significant facial swelling due to pus collection. This is called an abscess. If left untreated, the process can progress further into the jawbone, leading to changes in bone structure and ultimately the formation of a cyst as your body reacts to the source of the infection. The more advanced the disease, the less likely it is to successfully treat the tooth.

We'll ask you about your symptoms, carefully gathering even some information that might seem irrelevant. We'll also ask about your general health, any current medications you're taking, and any previous dental treatments you may have. Then, we'll carefully examine your mouth.

In most cases, radiographs (x-rays) will be taken to aid in the diagnostic process. Talk to us about the procedure, possible outcomes, and root canal treatment You can discuss the alternatives in detail. This will help you truly understand the limitations of the proposed treatment. It's crucial that you consent to treatment with a full understanding of what's involved.

How is Laser-Assisted Root Canal Treatment Performed?

Root canal treatment The goal is to eliminate the source of pain and/or infection. It's usually performed under local anesthesia. It may take one or more visits and depends on factors such as the structure of the root canals and the presence of infection.

Once the local anesthetic (when applied) takes effect, we create access through the tooth structure, allowing us to remove the diseased tissue. The canals will be mechanically shaped to provide good access. Due to the complexity of the canal system at the roots, mechanical access is difficult and not always possible for all teeth or canals.

At our clinic, laser light is used to actively remove all debris from your tooth's root canal system. The laser also disinfects the bacterial buildup within the root canal system, helping to eliminate the infection site during treatment, thus increasing the success of the treatment. If necessary, we then administer the necessary medication to the inside of the tooth and wait for a while.

Treatment will be continued at the next visit, which is usually within a few days. Root canal treatment The final step is to restore the tooth by filling and sealing the root canal system. Loss of access to the pulp and vitality often leaves the tooth structurally weaker, so restorations are used to preserve it. We will discuss restorative options with you in detail so we can choose the best way to restore the tooth to function.

What awaits me after treatment?

The treatment does not significantly affect your normal routine. The main discomfort will be from the numbing effect of the local anaesthetic, which lasts for a few hours. There may be some tenderness and varying degrees of discomfort in the first few days after the treatment, and painkillers may be required. If you need pain relief, you can take over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. If you take these types of medicines, please always refer to the information leaflet and speak to your pharmacist and us if you have any concerns.

How quickly does it heal?

If an infection involves the jawbone, healing is slow. Radiographic examination is typically required after 9-12 months. Healing is assessed by comparing it to the original condition. Further follow-up may be necessary in the following years. In rare cases, healing may not be satisfactory. In these cases, alternative root canal treatment We will consider approaches and discuss them with you to ensure the most appropriate resolution of your situation. Please remember that regular checkups and maintenance are crucial for the long-term success of any dental treatment.