Root Canal Treatment

What is Root Canal Treatment?

When nerve tissue or dental pulp inside a tooth becomes exposed through tooth decay or damage, it can become inflamed or infected.

For many patients, an infection of the dental pulp often causes sensitivity and in some cases acute toothache.

Root Canal Treatment – also known as Endodontics, is a common dental treatment to remove infected dental pulp, relieve pain and save your tooth.

How do I know if I need Root Canal Treatment?

Common causes of dental pulp infection can include deep cavities and decay, injuries such as cracked or chipped teeth or failing restorations such as a loose crown or a dislodged filling.

Most frequently affecting back teeth, but it can also affect front teeth, signs of an infection can include:

• Sensitivity to hot or cold.
• Toothache.
• Acute tooth pain.
• Inflammation or swelling.
• Discolouration of the tooth.

If untreated, infections can spread through the root canal system and into the jaw. This can potentially lead to more serious dental issues such as abscesses and cause significant discomfort.

If you think you may have an infection inside a tooth, please contact the practice and book in to see one of our dental team for further assessment and advice.

Our friendly and understanding team of dental professionals are here to help and will take time to explain your treatment in as much detail as you require.

What is the procedure for Root Canal Treatment?

During your consultation at the practice, your dentist will first examine your mouth and teeth and take X-rays and dental imagery to identify the extent of the infection.

If a Root Canal Treatment is appropriate, the area around the tooth to be treated is numbed with a local anaesthetic. Damaged or decayed parts of the tooth are then removed.

Once the infected tissue inside the tooth has been taken out, the canals are thoroughly disinfected, filled and sealed. A composite filling or dental crown is frequently used to restore and strengthen the tooth after the procedure.

With optimal home care including regular brushing and flossing, a root canal treatment is generally an effective and long-lasting solution that saves teeth from being extracted.