Endodontics (Root Canal Treatments)
Endodontics FAQ
What is root canal?
The root canal is the area inside the centre of the tooth that houses the nerve and blood supply. This becomes a larger space towards the top of the tooth known as the “pulp”. Some teeth have only one root canal whilst larger teeth towards the back of the mouth can have up to four.
When would I need root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment is needed when the pulp becomes affected by decay or or trauma. In these situations, it can become infected leading to inflammation and pain. In more severe cases the tooth can become “non-vital”, which means that it loses its blood supply altogether. Once the pulp becomes infected, the bacteria can spread through the root canal system and lead to the development of an abscess.
What does the treatment involve?
Root canal treatment aims to remove all infection and debris from the infected tooth. It is a skilled and time consuming procedure that usually requires two or more visits. Root canal treatment consists of the following stages:
- Removing the remains of the infected pulp and, if an abscess is present, allowing it to drain.
- Cleaning and shaping of the root canals ready for filling.
- Putting in a temporary filling.
- Checking the tooth at a later visit, to ensure that the infection is cleared and if so, filling the canal/s permanently.
- Restoring the rest of the tooth.
Here at Ethicare Dental Dr Omar Ikram accepts referrals for root treatments. Dr Ikram dedicates his practice to carrying out procedures within this field of dentistry. He is highly skilled at completing root canal treatment and produces excellent results even on teeth deemed to be difficult cases. Some examples of Dr Ikram’s work are shown on the x-rays below.
Dr. Omar Ikram BDS (Otago) FRACDS, RACDS
Specialist Registrar in Endodontics
Originally from New Zealand, Omar completed his undergraduate degree in Dunedin in 1997. During this time he was awarded the Craddock prize in removable prosthodontics and achieved distinction in this subject.
After graduating, Omar worked in private practice in Christchurch. During the same year he also completed the primary fellowship exams for the Royal Australasian College of dental surgeons.
He then moved to London in 1999, where he worked both for the NHS and the
private sector. It was during this time that he developed an interest in
endodontic treatment and cosmetic dentistry.
In 2005 he completed the Final exam and achieved his fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of dental surgeons. Also this year he began his Masters of clinical dentistry in endodontology at Kings College.
In 2007 he achieved distinction in the part one exam of the Masters and began research into loss of tooth substance during endodontic treatment.
Dentists - Learn how to refer patients needing treatment from a specialist and about our study club for CPD in our dentists area