People have been getting root canals since the 1830s when the first therapy tool was invented by Edwin Maynard. Since its inception, the technology and procedures surrounding this dentistry have evolved dramatically to take into account new knowledge and a better understanding of how the body functions. Endodontic treatment can be a confusing subject for people who don't understand all that it encompasses. So it helps to get a grasp of how this dentistry practice started—and where it's headed.

What Is Endodontics?

The English meaning of the word endodontics is tooth root treatment. This term includes not only treatments for teeth with pathological changes in the dental pulp, but also surgery procedures for normal teeth with pulpal pathosis. While it can be stated that endodontic surgery aims to save any tooth without pain and loss of functions, the most common endodontic procedure is performed is root canal surgery.

Early Endodontics

While the first recorded root canal surgery was in the 1830s, there is evidence that they were performed as early as third-century B.C.  A bronze wire was discovered in a skull that historians believe was used to treat an infected root canal. In the 1600s, people would have their pulp chambers drained to relieve toothache and pain. It wasn't until the 20th century where root canal surgery and endodontics became more advanced, not to mention safer. For a long time, the only solution to repairing an infected tooth was to pull it out. However, technological advancements led to other alternatives. Today, root canal surgery is so advanced that it is practically painless, and can save a tooth. It is even possible to replace the tooth's crown with a porcelain one, saving the patient money and providing them with an aesthetically pleasing appearance. In the future, endodontics will grow and expand to take on new challenges. Root canal surgery can seem a bit scary for some people, but it is nothing compared to what was done in the past.

The Future Of Endodontics 

We are still in the infancy when it comes to endodontics. What was once only performed on fully erupted teeth, with anesthetics that were very risky, can now be performed at any age without pain or complications.  As research continues and more knowledge is gathered about how the body functions, there will certainly be new challenges. Dentists will be able to save teeth and preserve each tooth's foundation thanks to the continuous improvement of endodontic surgery. In the future,  we will be able to diagnose and treat dental problems earlier, before they become serious. This way we can save and preserve our patients' natural teeth for a lifetime.

SS White: Here For The Future Of Endodontics

Experts from SS White Dental have been at the forefront of endodontics, providing the best technology and equipment to dentists and dental practices all over the world. With over 175 years of dedication,  expertise, and innovation, SS White Dental continues to uphold its promise to provide better products for better dentistry. Check out our line of products today!