Editing Endodontic Therapy (section)

==The Procedure (Step-by-Step)==

===1. Access Preparation===
The dentist or [[Endodontics|Endodontist]] creates an opening through the crown of the tooth (occlusal for molars, lingual for incisors) to reach the pulp chamber.

===2. Cleaning and Shaping===
The diseased pulp tissue is removed using specialized '''endodontic files'''.
* '''Irrigation''': The canals are flushed with disinfecting solutions, most commonly '''Sodium Hypochlorite''' (NaOCl), to dissolve organic debris and kill bacteria.
* '''Instrumentation''': Files are used to shape the canals into a tapered form to allow for effective filling.


===3. Obturation===
Once the canals are cleaned and dried, they are filled with a biocompatible material to prevent re-infection.
* '''[[Gutta-percha]]''': A thermoplastic latex material that is the standard for root canal filling.
* '''Sealer''': A medicinal cement used to ensure a fluid-tight seal between the gutta-percha and the canal walls.

===4. Restoration===
Because an endodontically treated tooth is "non-vital" (brittle) and often has significant lost structure, a final restoration is required.
* In most posterior teeth, a '''[[Dental Crown]]''' is mandatory to prevent tooth fracture.