Deep decay
When decay reaches the pulp of the tooth and infects it. Without treatment the inflammation spreads toward the root and the surrounding bone.
Root canal treatment in Nova Gorica Endodontics
Modern root canal treatment to save inflamed and at-risk teeth — instead of pulling, we preserve your natural tooth and restore its function.
What is root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment (endodontics) is a procedure to save a tooth whose dental pulp (nerve) is inflamed or infected. Inside the tooth are root canals containing blood vessels and nerves — when these become inflamed, the procedure makes it possible to remove the infected pulp and seal the canals.
The main advantage: instead of pulling the tooth (extraction), we preserve your natural tooth, which with appropriate prosthetic restoration can serve for decades. Modern techniques are significantly more comfortable and effective than in the past.
When is root canal treatment needed?
Tooth pain
Spontaneous pain, sensitivity to hot or cold lasting a long time, or pain on biting — all common symptoms of pulp inflammation.
Tooth trauma
After an injury (impact) the pulp can die even when the enamel is undamaged. Darkening of the tooth is a warning sign.
Abscess
Inflammation that has progressed into a purulent focus near the root. Swelling, severe pain, possibly fever — emergency.
How the procedure works
- 1
Diagnosis and X-ray
We examine the tooth, assess the symptoms and take an X-ray for an accurate diagnosis of the condition of the roots and the surrounding bone.
- 2
Local anaesthesia and opening the tooth
Under local anaesthesia we open access to the root canals through the crown of the tooth. The procedure is completely painless.
- 3
Cleaning and shaping the canals
Using a modern mechanical root canal cleaning system and disinfectants we precisely clean and shape the root canals to their full length.
- 4
Sealing the canals and restoring the tooth
We seal the canals with a biocompatible material (gutta-percha). The tooth is then restored with a filling or crown to protect it from cracks.
Frequently asked questions
When is root canal treatment needed?
Root canal treatment is needed when the dental pulp (nerve) becomes inflamed or infected due to deep decay, tooth injury or repeated dental procedures. Typical symptoms are pain, sensitivity to heat or cold, and swelling.
Is the procedure painful?
Modern root canal treatment is performed under local anaesthesia, so the procedure itself is painless. Mild transient sensitivity may occur after the procedure and can be managed with painkillers.
How many visits do I need?
Usually 1 to 3 visits, depending on the number of canals in the tooth, the degree of inflammation and the complexity of the case. After the treatment is completed, the tooth is restored prosthetically (a crown or large filling).
What is the success rate of the treatment?
When the procedure is performed correctly, the success rate is 85-95%. With appropriate prosthetic restoration, an endodontically treated tooth can serve a lifetime.
What if I don't have the treatment?
The inflammation spreads into the surrounding bone and can cause an abscess, pain and tooth loss. In untreated cases the only alternative is extraction (pulling) of the tooth.
Do you have tooth pain?
Don't delay — early intervention can save your tooth.