Treating the problem and assessing the options for preserving your tooth

Pain when chewing, discomfort that disrupts your rest or concern about losing a tooth can affect your daily life. If you have been advised to have endodontic treatment, understanding why, what it involves and what your options are can help you make a decision with greater peace of mind.

What is endodontics?

Endodontics is the area of dentistry dedicated to diagnosing and treating problems affecting the dental pulp and the tissues surrounding the root. The pulp is located inside the tooth and contains nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue.

Deep decay, an injury or a crack can damage the pulp. When inflammation or infection is present, endodontic treatment, commonly known as root canal treatment, may be needed.

What does the treatment involve?

Root canal treatment involves removing the affected pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the canals inside the roots, and filling them with a suitable material. The aim is to treat the problem and, where possible, preserve the tooth.

After root canal treatment, the damaged part of the tooth needs to be rebuilt to restore its shape, strength and function.

What can treatment help with, and when should you seek an assessment?

When indicated, treatment can help control infection, relieve pain associated with the problem and preserve the tooth so that it can continue to function. Whether the tooth can be preserved depends on an individual assessment.

If you have persistent discomfort, a concern about a tooth or questions about a recommended treatment, seek an assessment. Symptoms alone cannot tell you whether you need endodontic treatment.

What is the care pathway at Clinimed?

The first step is a diagnostic consultation, with an X-ray appropriate to your case. When indicated, this is followed by a referral for endodontic treatment.

Before proceeding, you receive an explanation of the treatment plan, the stages involved and the cost estimate. You can ask what will be done, how treatment is organised and what is planned afterwards, so that you can make an informed decision.

Dr António Cerqueira works exclusively in endodontics, focusing on root canal treatment. After this stage, he coordinates care with another dentist on the team, who is responsible for rebuilding the tooth so that it can return to its normal function.

What if you feel anxious about treatment?

We explain each stage clearly and answer your questions, respecting your pace to help you feel more at ease during treatment.

After the consultation, you receive guidance on how to care for your tooth and a contact for any questions. Knowing how to care for your tooth and who to contact is also part of your follow-up care.