Each tooth has a visible crown and a root that sits below the gum. Inside the tooth is the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. If this tissue becomes inflamed or infected, treatment may be required to prevent further damage and to save the tooth.
Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic treatment, involves removing infected or damaged tissue from inside the tooth. The root canals are carefully cleaned and sealed to reduce the risk of reinfection.
Following treatment, the tooth is restored with a filling or crown to protect it and restore normal function.
In some cases, a previously treated tooth may become reinfected and require retreatment. This can occur if infection was not fully resolved during the initial procedure or if new issues develop over time.
Endodontic retreatment involves removing the existing root filling, thoroughly cleaning the canals again, and resealing the tooth. This procedure can be more complex and may require additional techniques to achieve the best outcome.
Endodontic microsurgery is sometimes recommended when standard root canal treatment or retreatment is not suitable or has not been successful. This procedure involves removing infected tissue from the root tip using specialised microsurgical techniques.
Microsurgery may be considered in cases where infection persists or when access to the root canal system is limited by anatomical factors.
