Single Visit Root Canal Treatment

Title: Single Visit Root Canal Treatment
Author: Dr. Niranjana J

ISBN: 978-93-7461-971-1

The primary objective of endodontic therapy is the elimination of microorganisms from the infected root canal system and the prevention of reinfection, thereby preserving the natural tooth in a healthy and functional state. Conventionally, root canal treatment has been carried out over multiple appointments to facilitate thorough disinfection of the canal system and the placement of intra canal medicaments between visits.

However, with the rapid advancements in endodontic technology, including the introduction of nickel–titanium rotary instrumentation, improved irrigation protocols, enhanced magnification, and advanced obturation techniques, the concept of single-visit root canal treatment has gained considerable attention in contemporary endodontic practice.

Single-visit endodontics involves the completion of all stages of root canal therapy namely cleaning, shaping, disinfection, and obturation within a single clinical appointment. This approach offers several potential advantages, including reduced treatment time, increased patient comfort, improved patient compliance, and elimination of the risk of inter-appointment contamination. Despite these benefits, the approach remains a topic of ongoing debate among clinicians and researchers due to concerns regarding postoperative pain, microbial persistence, and the need for careful case selection.

Numerous clinical studies and systematic reviews have evaluated the success rates and clinical outcomes of single-visit root canal treatment in comparison with multiple-visit procedures. The findings of these studies contribute significantly to the understanding of the effectiveness and limitations of this treatment modality.

This book aims to review the available literature on SINGLE-VISIT ROOT CANAL treatment, focusing on its biological rationale, indications, contraindications, clinical procedures, advantages, limitations, and overall clinical outcomes.

The chapters are structured to integrate basic biological concepts with clinical application, supported by flowcharts, clinical photographs, radiographs, and case-based discussions. Evidence from contemporary literature has been incorporated to encourage critical thinking and promote evidence-based practice.

It is hoped that this book will act as a reliable reference and a practical manual, aiding clinicians in delivering timely, predictable, and patient-centered endodontic care. Constructive feedback from readers is warmly welcomed and will be invaluable for future editions.