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What is the focus of endodontics?

  1. Treatment of tooth decay

  2. Treatment of the tooth's pulp and root

  3. Alignment of teeth

  4. Replacement of missing teeth

The correct answer is: Treatment of the tooth's pulp and root

Endodontics primarily focuses on the treatment of the tooth's pulp and root. This branch of dentistry involves diagnosing and treating issues that affect the inside tissue of the tooth, which is known as the pulp. The pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue, and when it becomes infected or inflamed, it can lead to severe pain and other dental issues. Endodontic treatments, like root canal therapy, aim to remove damaged or infected pulp, disinfect the inner tooth, and seal it off to prevent further issues. This specialized field is essential in preserving natural teeth that might otherwise need extraction due to pulp-related diseases. In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of dental care, such as restorative techniques or orthodontics, which are not encompassed within the scope of endodontics.