An introduction to root canal treatment in Dubai and meeting our endodontists

An endodontist is a dentist who specializes in diagnosing and treating tooth pain and performing root canal treatments.

Root canal treatments are provided in the first place to relieve the pain caused by pulpal infection and inflammation. With modern dentistry and anesthetics, most patients report to be comfortable during the procedure. The tooth may feel sensitive for the initial few days post treatment which can be effectively managed with over the counter medications. Our main goal is to ensure that your root canal treatment is a pleasant and comfortable experience.

An endodontic retreatment may be required due to the following reasons:

• Presence of curved and narrow canals that were not accessed during the initial root canal procedure.
• Fracture of the treated tooth.
• Delayed placement of crown following root canal procedure.

The root canal treated tooth will be numb for a little while following the procedure. Before the anesthesia wears off, we generally advise the patient to have an over the counter medication such as ibuprofen. It is also recommended not to chew hard foods on the tooth until it has received a permanent restoration.

We welcome you to call us on 04 3987075 to discuss treatment costs or information on our interest-free 12 months payment plans.

By magnifying vision up to 25 times, the visualization of the treatment area is enhanced. Research demonstrates better treatment outcomes compared to procedures without vision magnification.

Antibiotics can help control the spread of a tooth infection and reduce pain and swelling, but they cannot cure a root canal tooth infection completely. The only way to completely cure a root canal tooth infection is to remove the infected pulp through root canal treatment. Root canal therapy allows the tooth to be saved and restored to its natural function. Antibiotics are sometimes prescribed before root canal therapy if the infection is severe, has spread to surrounding tissues, or the patient has a weakened immune system. However, antibiotics alone cannot remove the infected pulp or the source of the infection.

During a root canal, the infected nerves and tissues inside the tooth are removed, leaving it as a hollow shell. However, it’s important to note that the term “dead” in this context refers to the removal of the living tissues within the tooth, not the tooth itself. The outer structure of the tooth remains intact and can still function normally with the support of surrounding tissues. The purpose of root canal treatment is to save the tooth from further infection and potential extraction. By removing the infected pulp and disinfecting the root canals, the tooth can be preserved and continue to serve its function in the mouth.

During root canal treatment, our skilled professionals take the following steps to alleviate pain and save your tooth:

Diagnosis: We examine your tooth and X-rays to determine the extent of infection or damage.

Anesthesia: We administer local anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.

Access opening: A small opening is made in the crown of your tooth to access the infected or damaged pulp.

Cleaning: The infected pulp, nerve, and any debris are carefully removed from the root canals. The canals are then cleaned and shaped.

Filling: The cleaned canals are filled with a biocompatible material to seal them and prevent further infection.

Sealing: The access opening is sealed with a temporary or permanent filling.

Restoration: In most cases, a tooth that has undergone a root canal will need a protective crown to restore strength and function.

Post-treatment care instructions will be provided to ensure a smooth recovery. Do consult us for personalized details about your root canal treatment process.

Most insurance companies typically cover root canal treatments. For clarity, we recommend reaching out to your insurance provider to confirm coverage for the recommended procedure under your dental plan.

The alternative treatment options to root canal treatment depend on the specific situation and condition of the tooth. Some alternatives may include:

• Extraction: If the tooth is severely damaged or infected and cannot be saved, extraction (removal) of the tooth may be considered. After extraction, options like dental implants, bridges, or partial dentures can be placed to replace the missing tooth.
• Pulpotomy: In cases of infected or damaged pulp in a baby tooth, a pulpotomy may be performed. This involves removing the infected portion of the pulp and preserving the remaining healthy tissue.
• Apicoectomy: For certain persistent infections or issues after a root canal, an apicoectomy may be performed. This is a surgical procedure to remove the tip of the tooth’s root and any infected tissue.
• Watchful waiting: In some cases, if the infection or damage is minimal and not causing immediate discomfort, the tooth may be closely monitored without immediate intervention.

It’s crucial to consult with your dentist or endodontist to determine the most appropriate option for your specific case. They can provide recommendations based on the condition of the tooth, your oral health, and your overall well-being.

Under normal circumstances, the long-term success rate for root canal therapy ranges between 80-95%. A systematic review of longitudinal clinical studies published between 2003 and 2020 found that the weighted pooled success rates were estimated to be 92.6% under ‘loose criteria’ and 82.0% under ‘strict criteria’. Also, the overall success rates for endodontic treatment of molars seem to be similar to those of other tooth types, with more than 90% long-term success rates possible. For personalized responses and to ensure a seamless and successful root canal treatment journey, it’s essential to seek guidance from your endodontist or dental specialist.

Yes, we provide root canal treatments and re-root treatments at both JLT and Trade Centre branches.