ROOT CANAL TREATMENT - ENDODONTICS

Root canal treatment is an important procedure for rescuing infected, unhealthy and damaged teeth. Root canal treatment is necessary when bacteria become present in the root canal of the tooth where the live tissues of the tooth reside. The treatment involves introducing a dental disinfectant into the root canal to destroy the bacteria and allied infection.

The same treatment can apply when a patient requires a ‘Smile Design’. To achieve this, the dentist may have to straighten crooked teeth, which in turn will cause a sensitivity problem for the patient. In this case, root canal treatment is essential to deaden the nerve of the tooth residing in the canal.

Root canal therapy must be done by a qualified ‘endodontist’ (Endodontics being the dental science concerning the root canal and its treatment) as badly executed treatment can lead to further discomfort and the eventual loss of the tooth.. Our clinic is aware of the importance of this treatment and our endodontist, or Root Canal Therapist, is a specialist professor on the subject.

The treatment in our clinic is both quick and painless, leading to the patient being free from sensitivity, and being able to eat in comfort.

What is involved in Root Canal treatment?

Firstly, the length of the dental canal must be determined by x-ray (radiography) before the treatment commences. The area around the tooth is then anaesthetised, and if the tooth has a cavity it is treated.

The dentist then drills down to reach the pulp chamber containing the soft tissues and root canal. All soft tissues are then removed from the pulp chamber. Medication is applied to the chamber to eradicate bacteria and infection, and the tooth is then closed with a temporary filling. Under normal conditions, this will remain for 5 – 7 days to allow the medication to work. However, if there is advanced infection, the medication might have to stay in place for longer, or new medication added. When treatment has been completed, the tooth will be filled, or be crowned.

How long will my root canal treatment last?

If the patient pays proper attention to oral and dental care by regularly brushing their teeth and flossing, a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment will last indefinitely, and will perform normally.

Is root canal therapy painful?

A local anaesthetic will numb the tooth and surrounding tissues, so the patient will not feel any pain during treatment. For those patients who are sensitive to needles we can use a needleless injection, and we also have facilities for those who suffer from dental phobia.

Can I expect to feel pain after root canal treatment?

It is normal to feel mild pain for a few weeks, especially after vascular treatment in living teeth. However, this is mild compared to an untreated tooth, where there is also the risk of losing the tooth in the future.

It is advised that the patient doesn’t play with the treated tooth with their tongue, as this will hinder the healing process, and at worst, will expose the internal treated area of the tooth.