Endodontics
Advanced Root Canal Treatments for Lasting Tooth Health
Book for Endodontics Treatment
At IDS, our dedicated team is committed to providing high-quality endodontic care tailored to your individual needs. Whether you require a root canal or an apicoectomy, we are here to help you maintain a healthy, functional smile.
Endodontics Preserving Your Natural Teeth
At IDS, our Endodontic services focus on the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the dental pulp, ensuring that you can maintain your natural teeth for as long as possible. Our experienced specialists employ advanced techniques to deliver effective and comfortable treatment for a variety of endodontic issues.
What Is Endodontics?
Endodontics is a branch of dentistry that deals with the inner tissues of the tooth, primarily the dental pulp. The pulp is composed of nerves and blood vessels and plays a vital role in tooth health. When the pulp becomes infected or damaged due to decay, trauma, or other factors, endodontic treatment is essential to save the tooth and alleviate pain.
Common Endodontic Procedures
Root Canal Treatment
- Purpose: Root canal therapy is designed to remove infected or inflamed pulp tissue from inside the tooth, preventing further infection and preserving the tooth.
- Procedure: During the procedure, your dentist will:
- Administer local anaesthesia to ensure comfort.
- Create a small access hole in the tooth to reach the pulp chamber.
- Remove the infected pulp and clean the canal system.
- Fill the cleaned canal with a biocompatible material and seal it.
- Restore the tooth with a filling or crown to restore function and appearance.
- Recovery: Most patients experience minimal discomfort after the procedure, and full recovery can typically be expected within a few days.
Apicectomy
- Purpose: An apicectomy is a surgical procedure performed when a root canal treatment is not sufficient to heal an infection at the root tip. It involves removing the tip of the tooth root and surrounding infected tissue.
- Procedure: The steps include:
- Administering local anaesthesia to ensure comfort.
- Making a small incision in the gum to access the root of the tooth.
- Removing the infected tissue and the tip of the root.
- Sealing the root end with a biocompatible material to prevent future infection.
- Recovery: Recovery from an apicoectomy can take a few days, with follow-up appointments scheduled to ensure proper healing.
Signs You May Need Endodontic Treatment
- Persistent toothache, especially when biting or applying pressure.
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, even after the source is removed.
- Discoloration of the tooth.
- Swelling and tenderness in the gums near the affected tooth.
- A recurring pimple on the gums.
The Importance of Timely Endodontic Care
Prompt treatment is crucial to avoid further complications, including tooth loss. Regular dental check-ups help identify potential issues early, enabling effective treatment before more invasive procedures become necessary.
Specialist Endodontic Care by Howard Lloyd
At IDS, we are proud to have Dr Howard Lloyd, a highly experienced, respected and renowned Specialist in Endodontics, on our team. Dr Lloyd graduated in 1989 and completed his specialist training in 1996 with an MSc in Endodontics from Eastman Dental Hospital. His focus has been on delivering expert endodontic care, diagnosing and treating complex root canal issues. Dr Lloyd is dedicated to providing long-lasting, patient-centred care. Book now to schedule an appointment with Dr Howard Lloyd at IDS.
Frequently Asked Questions About Endodontics
Most patients report that the procedure is no more painful than getting a filling, thanks to effective anaesthesia and modern techniques.
With proper care and maintenance, a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment can last a lifetime.
Mild discomfort may occur after treatment, but this can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
Extraction is an alternative; however, it is often recommended to preserve the natural tooth whenever possible.
