Endodontics, better known as nerve treatment, is performed to avoid the extraction of the tooth and maintain its functionality, it is like giving the tooth a second chance. A nerve treatment is indicated when there is an infection in the tooth, when there is the presence of deep cavities, accidental blows, or when there are gum problems.
The most common symptoms that show the need for nerve treatment are: intense spontaneous pain when drinking hot drinks or percussion (when touched).
Generally this treatment is not painful because it is performed under local anesthesia. Sometimes the patient may experience discomfort days after the root canal is performed, for which analgesics are prescribed.
Usually only one appointment is needed to perform it, unless the tooth has an infection or some complication, which in that case more appointments may be necessary.
Once the nerve treatment is finished, the dentist will recommend performing a definitive restoration in a second session such as a resin, inlay, or crown.
Often times, patients do not undergo the definitive restoration, which result in the endodontics becoming contaminated or the tooth fractured.
The nerve treatment allows to maintain the natural tooth with its functionality in the mouth. However, if this is not possible, the option will be to extract the tooth. In the event of losing a tooth, treatments such as dental implants, dental crowns, and bridges can help you preserve the functionality and aesthetics of your natural teeth.
It is important not to ignore any type of discomfort, as it is often an alert indicating that something may not be right in your mouth.
