Video Procedure: What is root canal therapy?

This video procedure is available on the Dental Procedure Education System (DPES) of the Faculty of Dentistry at the University of Toronto

The video was developed by Dr. Karina Roth

Context

When the pulp is injured or diseased and is unable to repair itself, it becomes inflamed and will eventually become necrotic (i.e., dead). Root Canal Therapy must, therefore, be instituted in order to avoid the spread of inflammation and infection to the tissues surrounding the diseased tooth.

• Take appropriate radiographs.
• Perform the necessary tests to verify the offending tooth and establish an accurate diagnosis:
  • The cold test
  • The electric pulp
  • The Heat Test,
  • The Percussion Test,
  • The Palpation Test, and
  • The Tooth Sleuth Test.
• Administer adequate local anaesthesia to the site.
• Isolate the tooth with a rubber dam.
• Prepare access into the core of the tooth, using a handpiece.
• Establish the working length in order to determine the end of the preparation.
• An electric device (ROOT ZX) and a working radiogpraph will confirm the length.
• Clean and shape the root canal.
• Take a master apical file radiograph.
• Select and fit a master gutta-percha cone.
• Take a master cone radiograph.
• Dry up the canal with sterile paper points.
• Place the sealer and perform the filling.
• Place several gutta-percha points in the canal space.
• take a mid-obturation radiograph to confirm that the filling procedure us being completed with no voids in the apical third.
• Sear the excess gutta-percha, using a Touch’n Heat unit. Place a sponge pellet at the orifice level and place a tight double seal to avoid leakage.
• Take a post-operative radiograph.
• Schedule the patient for the placement of te permanent restoration.
• Advise the patient to avoid eating on the treated area until the anesthesia has worn off to avoid biting the cheek.

 Watch the Video

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