Endodontics

What is Endodontics?

Endodontics is a highly complex area of dental practice involving the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of diseases of the dental pulp (commonly referred to as the nerve of the tooth).

The pulp is a complex bundle of small blood vessels, nerve fibres and other cells which run through the length of the root(s) of a tooth. The pulp tissue is very delicate and can become damaged or diseased due to decay, cracks, trauma, old fillings, grinding or general wear and tear. If the pulp becomes damaged it can become inflamed or infected and this is when endodontic (root canal) therapy can be beneficial. Endodontic disease can cause swelling and pain, however in some instances there may be no symptoms at all. Sometimes an endodontic problem may be found by your dentist on a routine X-ray before symptoms have developed.

What is an Endodontist?

An endodontist is a dental specialist who diagnoses, prevents and treats diseases of the dental pulp. Commonly known as Root Canal specialists, endodontists first do a dental degree which is generally five years of training. All endodontists must then spend a minimum of two years in general practice to hone their skills before commencing their specialist programme. This is another three years of full-time academic and clinical training which includes advanced training in diagnosis, anaesthesia, use of surgical microscopes, endodontic therapy, endodontic re-treatment and endodontic surgery. Endodontists then limit their practice to endodontics and do not practice any other aspects of dentistry in order to focus on, and remain experts in their complex area of practice. Choose only the best for your endodontic needs in Melbourne.