Microscope-Assisted Root Canal Treatment (Microendodontics

Microscope-assisted root canal treatment, also known as microendodontics, is a treatment procedure that involves the use of a microscope during the endodontic treatment process. In microendodontics, dentists or endodontists aim to treat infections or damage in the root canals of the tooth. The use of a microscope during the procedure provides a more detailed view, allowing dentists to work more precisely within the root canals.

What is Microscope-Assisted Root Canal Treatment (Microendodontics)?

Microendodontics is one of the root canal treatment procedures that developed after the use of the dental operating microscope (DOM) began in endodontics. The root canal of a tooth consists of very thin and delicate pathways. Sometimes these pathways become more complex with multiple canals or curved paths. Intervening in such canals can be quite challenging for the dentist. Additionally, the natural structure of the tooth within the mouth makes visibility quite difficult. The root canals run from the center of the tooth’s crown down to the jaw. Near the root tip, the canal branches into many small canals similar to a river delta. To stop the pain and achieve a good and long-lasting result, all these small branches of the canal must be thoroughly cleaned and sealed. This is where microendodontics is needed, as these small branches can be much more easily seen under a microscope.

Why is Microscope-Assisted Root Canal Treatment (Microendodontics) Used?

The use of the dental operating microscope (DOM) in endodontic treatment allows for a greatly improved visualization of the complex structure of the root canal system with high-intensity illumination and magnification. Working under a microscope enables the dentist to move more precisely during the procedure. This auxiliary medical device helps in cleaning, shaping, and placing the filling material in the root canals more effectively. Additionally, microendodontics causes less tissue damage during the procedure with a more minimally invasive approach.

How is Microscope-Assisted Root Canal Treatment (Microendodontics) Applied?

Endodontists use the microendodontics method to visualize the affected area clearly during root canal treatment. Before the procedure, local anesthesia is applied around the tooth to ensure the patient does not feel pain. After a careful diagnosis, the endodontist removes the infected pulp and nerve. The steps of applying microscope-assisted root canal treatment can include:

• Isolation of the tooth: The tooth is isolated from surrounding tissues using a rubber dam or other isolation techniques, allowing the dentist to work in a hygienic environment.
• Preparation of the root canals: During microendodontics, the root canals are examined under a microscope and cleaned, shaped, and widened with special endodontic tools. This step is necessary to eliminate the infection or damage in the root canals.
• Washing and disinfection of the root canals: The root canals are rinsed with disinfectant solutions to eliminate the infection.
• Filling the root canals: After cleaning the root canals, they are filled with medical filling material by the dentist.
• Protective restoration: After filling the root canals, the top of the tooth is restored and strengthened with restorative materials.

Benefits of Microscope-Assisted Root Canal Treatment (Microendodontics)

Microendodontics offers many advantages over traditional diagnostic procedures in root canal treatment. The method allows the endodontist to clearly visualize the inside of the root canal. The microscope can detect even very small cracks that normal diagnostic methods cannot. These microscopes also aid in the re-treatment of previously treated teeth due to new infections. Additionally, microscopes help endodontists gain easier access to blocked canals, which are very difficult to reach without them.

Microendodontics is an effective method used in root canal treatments today. This application helps dentists to access and intervene in areas of infection or blockage in the tooth canals more comfortably. Individuals with discomfort in their teeth who need root canal treatment can have their treatment processes made more comfortable with microendodontic methods.