Sometimes tooth decay (caries) or trauma extend deep enough to affect the pulp – the so-called “nerve” – of the tooth to the point of causing necrosis or intense symptoms, such as continuous pain, swelling, etc. (pulpitis, abscess, etc). In such cases a filling alone is not enough to sufficiently treat the tooth, as the remains of the “nerve” need to be removed and the interior of the tooth be disinfected.
This is primarily done using special needle-like instruments – both manual and rotary – designed to reach the full length of the root canals. Appropriate antiseptic solutions are also used and afterward the root canals are sealed with a suitable material to prevent bacteria from re-entering.
Of course, appropriate local anaesthesia is administered beforehand when needed, so the entire procedure is painless.
Finally, the tooth is sealed or built up with white filling material, often with the addition of a small post inserted into one of the root canals for support.
In most cases the teeth that undergo such treatment become significantly weakened and are at greater risk of fracturing in the future. It is therefore recommended that they be covered with a crown (“cap”) to protect them adequately and make sufficiently durable for chewing, etc.
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