Root Canal

Root Canal Treatment

Root Canal Treatment

A root canal is a treatment that is used to repair and then save a tooth that is badly decayed or damaged through trauma. During a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp are first removed and the inside of the tooth is then cleaned and sealed. Without any form of treatment, the tissue surrounding the tooth may become infected and abscesses could possibly form which may cause you significant pain. An alternative to root canal therapy is to have the tooth extracted.

Procedure

  • An X-ray is taken to assess the tooth.
  • Local anaesthetic is given and when the tooth is numb rubber dam is placed. This is used to isolate your tooth from the rest of your mouth. Current evidence suggests this increases the success of root canal treatment.
  • An access cavity is drilled in the centre of the tooth to reach the pulp space and access the nerve canals inside the roots.
  • The canals are cleaned and shaped using special instruments called files to remove the pulp tissue and any infection.
  • The canals are then filled with a rubber filling material called Gutta Percha and the access cavity is filled.
Root Canal AfterCare
Jacqui Dean - Berwick Hills Dental Services

Does Root Canal Treatment Hurt?

Despite what you may have heard, root treatment is usually painless!

Questions about Root Canal Treatment

How Long Will My Treatment Take?

A root treatment usually takes at least 2 appointments to complete but may take longer if the tooth has a complicated root system.

How Will I Feel After My Treatment?

Your tooth might be painful for a few days and this can be controlled with over the counter painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol.

Will Any Further Treatment Be Needed?

Back teeth will often need to be crowned after root treatment. This is to prevent the tooth flexing and breaking.

What Will Happen If I Don’t Take The Treatment?

Severe pain or swelling may develop and the tooth may need to be extracted.

Does Root Canal Treatment Always Work?

Root canal treatment has a high degree of success but it is a biological procedure and success cannot be guaranteed. Occasionally, despite our best efforts, infection may persist or recur and your tooth may require retreating, surgery or even extraction.

Root Canal Treatment

Talk to us.

If you think you think that you might be in need of root canal treatment then please get in touch with our dedicated team for a consultation. We will be happy to help and examine any issues that you are having.