Tooth Devitalization

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Devitalization, also known as endodontic treatment, is a procedure carried out when the pulp of the tooth is damaged or infected. This condition can arise due to deep caries, dental trauma or even periodontal infections.

Devitalization is essential to relieve pain, prevent the progression of infection and save the compromised tooth. By preserving tooth structure, root canalization promotes long-term oral health and avoids the need for tooth extractions, preserving chewing function and the integrity of the smile in a natural way.

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Devitalization treatment step-by-step

1. Evaluation and diagnosis:

To know whether root canal treatment is the right solution, it is essential to carry out a complete analysis of the patient's case. By carrying out examinations, such as an x-ray, the dentist will assess the need for endodontic treatment and plan the intervention.

2. Removal of the dental pulp:

Using local anesthesia, an opening is made in the tooth to remove the infected tissue and clean the inside of the tooth, which is then properly disinfected in order to eliminate all bacteria. Depending on the complexity of the case, it is not always possible to carry out the full treatment in just one appointment. In these cases, a temporary restoration is placed in the access opening to protect the tooth between appointments.

3. Filling and sealing:

The filling material is then placed and the tooth is hermetically sealed to prevent reinfection.

4. Restoration:

After the endodontic procedure, the tooth is restored to its natural appearance.

5. Follow-up:

The final step in treatment is regular follow-up visits with the dentist to ensure that the treatment is as successful as expected and that there are no signs of complications.

Benefits of Tooth Devitalization

Tooth Preservation

Devitalization makes it possible to save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted. This is essential to maintain the integrity of the dental arch and avoid problems with occlusion and movement of adjacent teeth.

Pain Relief

The need for tooth devitalization often arises due to severe pain caused by inflammation or infection in the dental pulp. After the procedure, the patient experiences significant pain relief, allowing them to resume their daily activities without discomfort.

Infection Prevention

By removing the infected pulp, cleaning and hermetically sealing the tooth, you prevent the infection from spreading to other areas of the mouth, such as the bone or gums

Fast recovery

Although this treatment may require more than one visit to the dentist, after devitalization, patients can resume their normal activities relatively quickly and experience pain relief right away.

What pathologies can it treat?

Deep dental caries

Caries is the main situation that leads to tooth devitalization. This happens when it isn't treated immediately and develops into something deeper, reaching the nerve of the tooth, causing inflammation, pain and discomfort. Devitalization eliminates the pain and allows the tooth to perform its function in the same way.

Dental trauma

It's common to resort to root canal treatment in cases of accidents that damage the teeth, exposing the pulp. In these cases, where the tooth fractures and the nerves are exposed, tooth sensitivity increases and root canal is a way of getting around it.

Infections

Some infections, such as periodontitis, may require a tooth devitalization. In these circumstances, bacteria proliferate in the gum and bone tissue.

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FAQ's

1. What is tooth devitalization?
Tooth devitalization is a procedure used to remove damaged, infected or dead dental pulp and to clean, disinfect and seal the tooth's root canal.
2. Why does a tooth need to be devitalized?
A tooth may need to be devitalized due to deep decay, dental trauma, fractures, or infections that reach the dental pulp, causing severe pain and inflammation.
3. Is root canal treatment painful?
Root canal treatment is usually carried out under local anesthesia, which means that the patient should feel no pain during the procedure. After treatment, there may be some discomfort or sensitivity, which can be managed with painkillers prescribed by the dentist.
4. How long does it take to have a tooth devitalized?
The duration of the treatment can vary, but it usually takes between one and two hours to complete. In some cases, it may be necessary to carry out the treatment in two sessions.
5. What are the signs that I might need a devitalization?
Common signs that you may need root canal treatment include persistent toothache, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling and tenderness in the gums, darkening of the tooth and the presence of a persistent or recurring abscess or fistula in the gum.
6. What happens after treatment?
After treatment, it is normal to feel some temporary discomfort. The dentist may prescribe painkillers to relieve the pain. It is also important to follow the dentist's instructions for caring for the treated tooth, including avoiding chewing hard food until the tooth is permanently restored.
7. How long does a devitalized tooth last?
With proper care, a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment can last for many years, possibly even a lifetime. Proper restoration, such as a crown, and maintaining good oral hygiene are fundamental to the longevity of the treated tooth.
8. Are there alternatives to root canal treatment?
The main alternative to root canal treatment is to extract the infected tooth. However, whenever possible, we favor a conservative approach that involves trying to save the tooth by removing it, since keeping natural teeth is ideal for oral health and chewing function.
9. What can happen if I don't treat a tooth that needs devitalization?
If left untreated, a tooth in need of devitalization can lead to a serious infection, abscess, severe pain and, eventually, tooth loss. The infection can also spread to other areas of the mouth and body, causing other types of complications.