Removing complex teeth safely and with minimal impact.
Root canal therapy is a specialised treatment designed for teeth that are no longer vital or alive. This endodontic procedure becomes necessary when a tooth has suffered trauma, such as a fracture, leading to disease within the delicate dental pulp tissues contained within the tooth.
Dental pulp & its functions
The dental pulp consists of nerves, blood vessels and soft tissues within the tooth’s canal or chamber. Often called the “nerve” of the tooth, the pulp extends from the root’s end to the crown, with the chamber commonly known as the root canal. This complex structure plays a crucial role in maintaining tooth vitality.
The dental pulp’s primary function is to keep the tooth alive. Nerves in the pulp provide sensation, alerting to dental pain when irritated. Blood vessels and tissues within the pulp support the ongoing production of dentine, reinforcing the tooth as the enamel wears over time. As animals age, the root canal gradually narrows, evolving from a wide space in young animals to a nearly closed canal in older ones.
Preserving Non-Vital Teeth
While an untreated non-vital tooth poses risks, a non-vital tooth treated with root canal therapy can remain indefinitely, provided the surrounding structures stay healthy. Root canal therapy is essential for preserving the function and health of non-vital teeth.
The treatment process
- Access and Removal of Diseased Material: Create an access point into the tooth, usually through the fractured area, to remove all diseased material.
- Cleaning, Shaping, and Drying: Meticulously clean, shape and dry the canals during the procedure.
- Filling the Root Canal: Fill the root canal with a material that seals the space, preventing the re-establishment of infection.
- Restoration (Filling): Apply a restoration or filling to seal the access point and cover the pulp exposure.
- Optional Crown Fitting: In some cases, fitting a crown may be recommended to protect the remaining tooth structure, though this is generally optional.
Considerations & Follow-up
Root canal therapy is recommended when there is a reasonable chance of success. However, not all teeth are suitable candidates for this treatment. Although no guarantees can be made due to the unpredictable nature of pets, which may damage their teeth again after treatment, the success rate is generally high.
Periodic follow-up x-rays are essential for assessing the progression and overall health of the treated tooth. Most teeth treated with root canal therapy can last a pet’s lifetime (over 90%). Ongoing monitoring is crucial for early detection of any potential issues, as pets may not always communicate discomfort effectively.
