endodontics

Root Canal Therapy

When the inner part of a tooth, the root canal system, becomes infected it may be necessary to carefully remove the infected tissue to avoid an extraction and prevent further pain. This infection can be caused by tooth decay, cracked fillings or trauma to the tooth, and symptoms can include pain, increased sensitivity, discolouration and gum tenderness.

Root canal therapy treats the infection by removing the bacteria and preventing it from spreading, after which the tooth is permanently filled so it remains intact and functional.

The Treatment Process

  • We will numb the affected area with a local anaesthetic and precisely remove the infected tissue.
  • The root canals are flushed out with an antibacterial solution and if necessary we will apply an antibacterial dressing in the tooth for around a month to eliminate any remaining bacteria.
  • When suitably cleaned, the root canals are filled with a rubber like material to prevent further bacteria from getting in.
  • Finally, we will seal the treated tooth with a permanent filling or crown.
root-canal

Frequently Asked Questions

Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic treatment, is a dental procedure that involves removing infected or damaged tissue (pulp) from inside a tooth, cleaning and shaping the root canal system, and filling it with a biocompatible material to prevent further infection.

A root canal treatment is necessary when the pulp inside the tooth becomes infected or inflamed due to decay, injury or gum disease. Without treatment, the infection can spread and cause further damage to the tooth and surrounding tissues.

A root canal treatment is necessary when the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or damaged due to decay, injury, or gum disease. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the surrounding tissues and cause serious complications, including tooth loss.

The signs that you might need a root canal treatment include severe toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling and tenderness in the gums, and discolouration of the tooth.

Root canal treatment is performed under local anaesthesia, which numbs the area and prevents pain during the procedure. You may experience some discomfort and sensitivity in the treated tooth for a few days after the procedure, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

The length of a root canal treatment can vary depending on the complexity of the case, but most treatments can be completed in one or two appointments.

After a root canal treatment, your dentist will likely place a temporary filling in the tooth. You may need to return for a follow-up appointment to have a permanent filling or crown placed on the tooth.

The alternative to a root canal treatment is extraction of the tooth. However, extraction can lead to other complications, such as shifting of the teeth, difficulty chewing, and loss of bone density in the jaw. Therefore, a root canal treatment is usually the preferred option to save the tooth and maintain oral health.

The best way to prevent the need for a root canal treatment is to practice good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly, and seeing your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings.