Root canal treatment (also known as endodontic therapy, endodontic treatment, or root canal therapy) is a treatment sequence for the infected pulp of a tooth which is intended to result in the elimination of infection and the protection of the decontaminated tooth from future microbial invasion. Endodontic technologies and biomaterials have undergone substantial advances in the last decade. Although the latest tools for performing endodontics, such as rotary instrumentation and thermoplastic obturation techniques, have elevated the specialty to a level of sophistication never before attained, a number of areas remain that require significant advancement.

There have been significant advancements in endodontic surgery over the past 20 years. The use of magnification (ie, surgical operating microscope and endoscope), ultrasonic tip root-end preparation, micro instruments and newer retro fill materials are some of the major advancements.

Root canal treatment as we see it today, may be changing in the future with a concept called regenerative dental fillings. Popular Science recently published an article that highlighted some new dental research and technology that is in the works–a concept called regenerative dental fillings!  This proposed solution to dying/injured tissue is exciting to the dental community. When a tooth has sustained injury, or serious decay, sometimes it is necessary to incorporate endodontics into your treatment planning by performing root canal therapy to save the tooth. Untreated cavities that reach the pulp of a tooth have to be treated immediately. Infected pulp can turn to surrounding bone to feed on causing a painful abscess. Infected pulp is unable to heal on its own. Your dentist performs root canal treatment to clean out the infected pulp and disinfect the canals.

Researchers at Harvard and the University of Nottingham aim to eliminate the need for your dentist to treat the injured or infected pulp by, instead, letting your body do it.  The new treatment method engages the healing powers of stem cells to work on your body’s behalf.