title: Endodontic disease: development and treatment.
abstract: Endodontic disease requires the involvement of micro-organisms. Microbial contamination of the pulp-dentine complex occurs in a number of different ways. The loss of integrity of teeth and the penetration of the pulp-dentine complex by a mixed microbial flora characterises the disease processes which can lead to pulpal and periradicular inflammation and infection. Endodontology is that part of dental science which deals with the biology of the pulp-dentine complex in health and disease, an understanding of which is a prerequisite to the provision of sound conservative care. The principles of endodontic treatment require the control of micro-organisms and potential nutrients by the microbial decontamination of teeth, the denaturing of protein and the sealing of dentine to prevent recolonisation.
authors.affiliation: School of Dentistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of the West Indies.
authors.forename: R T
authors.initials: RT
authors.lastname: Walker
mesh_terms: D003788:Dental Pulp Diseases / Q000382:microbiology* / Q000628:therapy; D003806:Dentin Permeability; D018450:Disease Progression; D006801:Humans; D012390:Root Canal Therapy