Endodontics or root canal treatments

In the past, a root canal was often seen as a quick way to obtain pain relief, since the pulp of the tooth was removed. Over the past 30 years, however, this has evolved into a distinct specialisation within dentistry, which is why our dental specialists have completed an additional 3-year advanced master’s programme (a Master-Na-Master course). After all, dental pulp forms a complex component of the tooth and is no longer regarded as just the canal into which a nerve runs. 

In specific terms, this treatment at MOND almost always follows the same step-by-step plan: 

• A diagnosis is made on the basis of an examination and X-rays. In the case of complex problems, 3D imaging is also a possibility.
• Treatment will be scheduled or started, at which point you will also be told the cost.
• The treatment itself takes 1 to 2 hours (a molar can sometimes has 4 nerve canals, whereas an incisor often only has 1).
• The dentist will always use the correct local anaesthetic so that the treatment is painless.
• Afterwards, the tooth is opened up by creating a small passage through the chewing surface or through the crown or bridge (in the event that it can be retained).
• Once the nerve canal can be accessed, all of the affected nerve tissue is removed using very delicate sterile instruments that have been adapted to the complex anatomy of these curved, very fine canals, thereby ensuring no additional damage is caused to them. 
• Because this work is so delicate, our specialists use a microscope in order to properly inspect everything deep inside the root canal.
• During this treatment, the canals are extensively flushed out and disinfected with antibacterial rinsing agents to ensure everything is as clean as possible.
• The sterile root canal system is then completely filled with a liquid rubber paste that follows the anatomy of the tooth.
• In the final stage, access to the canal is closed by using a permanent or temporary filling depending on the time available or what follow-up treatment (crown or filling) is required.
• These treatments are carried out under a rubber dam (also known as a dental dam) to prevent your saliva from being contaminated by bacteria and to provide you with protection from the often sharp instruments that are used during the procedure (such as rotary files and drills).

Up-to-date materials and techniques ensure that a tooth that has undergone a root canal procedure will not become discoloured after treatment. Conversely, a tooth that has turned grey as a result of an old nerve problem could become paler again through the combination of a proper root canal treatment and bleaching of the pulp chamber.

Since our dental specialists have undergone additional training and use expensive, special materials such as NiTi rotary files and microscopy, this treatment is deemed non-conventional. This means that the additional fee supplement will be a lot higher than the traditional amount reimbursed. Additional insurance in the form of a dental plan can often cover these extra costs.