Hearing the words ‘root canal treatment’ is something many patients dread when they come to the dentist with a toothache. But with the right equipment and techniques, it doesn’t need to be something to fear. Our new dentist, Tom Brannen, has a special interest in this particular area of dentistry, known as ‘endodontics’.
What is endodontics?
Endodontics is a dental speciality focused on the study and treatment of the dental pulp, nerves and tissue surrounding the roots of a tooth. It primarily deals with diagnosing and treating tooth pain, infections, and injuries affecting the soft inner core of the tooth.
Root canal treatment is the most common and widely performed procedure in endodontics. A root canal is a dental procedure designed to save a severely damaged or infected tooth. It involves removing the inflamed or infected pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels), cleaning and disinfecting the inner root channels, and sealing them to prevent future infections.
Tom explains “Typically when a patient is referred to me their tooth is infected or the area around it is inflamed. My main goal is trying to preserve people’s teeth that would otherwise be lost.” He also adds “Root canal treatments have got a bit of a reputation with patients as being a treatment that’s uncomfortable or painful, but with the modern equipment and materials we have now, we’re able to carry out this treatment in a much more comfortable manner.”
Did you know?
The word ‘endodontics’ is derived from Greek words meaning “inside” (endo) and “tooth” (odont).
About Tom
Tom qualified from Newcastle University in 2010 and started working in general practice. He then completed his MSc training with Kings College London in Endodontics with a distinction.
Using a microscope and CBCT scans allows Tom to provide the most detailed analysis of what’s happening inside a tooth. CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) is an advanced 3D imaging technology used in endodontics. Unlike traditional 2D X-rays, it provides highly detailed, cross-sectional views of your teeth, roots, and surrounding jawbone. This allows endodontists to pinpoint hidden infections, complex root canals, and fractures.
Tom explains why endodontics has become his area of special interest. “I believe that if we can give patients the best chance of saving their tooth and keeping it for as long as possible then that should be the primary aim. It also appeals to me on a technical level, the information we get from using the latest technology allows me to plan the treatment very precisely and get the best outcome. I like paying attention to the small details and doing things to a really high standard.”
Tom is keen to reassure any patients who may be referred for root canal treatment. He says “We want to ensure that patients can come for their treatments not feeling scared that it will be painful, and also give them a predictable outcome so they know that what we are doing will give them good long term treatment results.”
To book your next appointment, call our reception team on 0191 2596506, use the contact form or email reception@unionquaydental.co.uk