Molar Root Treatment

One of the most difficult treatments performed by an endodontist is a root treatment of a molar tooth. The procedure is difficult for many reasons but many patients expect it to be performed rapidly as they are unaware of the complicating factors.

Reasons for difficulty

The tooth is situated near the back of the mouth making access difficult especially in those with small mouths. Many of the fine instruments are too long to fit directly into the tooth and have to be bent to make them fit.
Molar teeth have two or three roots and usually between three and four root canals though in some teeth there may be as many as six or seven. Each needs to be treated as any remaining bacteria may cause a painful re-infection of the tooth.
The nerve canals may also be narrow and twisted and difficult to get down. The instruments used are very fine and easily broken under these conditions.