The oral cavity is colonised with billions of bacteria. The majority are harmless. However as well as cavity-causing bacteria there are also so-called “anaerobes”; bacteria and germs that do not require oxygen to survive. These can occupy the small tubules inside the dead or endodontically-treated teeth, or periodontal pockets. These harmful bacteria produce toxins that are very harmful for the body. In the field of modern dental endodontics, there is awareness of the problem of bacterial colonisation in the tubules of root-filled teeth (RFT), and new methods to minimise these risks are constantly being developed. New Research shows that chemicals (mercaptan, hydrogen sulfide, thioethe)) can be produced by microorganisms that occupy the root of a root filled tooth which can be transported throughout the body and can cause health issues away from the tooth.
Our centre does not advocate root canal treatment and will discuss the pro’s and con’s of this treatment if a tooth’s vitality is compromised and what other options are possible if a tooth needs to be extracted. Patients can then make an informed decision whether root canal treatment is the suitable option for them. We refer patients for root canal treatment to an endodontist, if this option is preferred.
Alternatives to root canal treatment are biocompatible zirconium implants, ceramic bridges or partial removable dentures.
If non-vital teeth need to be removed, great care is taken to also remove the infected tissues that surround the root.
