Root Canal Treatment
What is Root Canal Treatment?
A root canal may be required when the pulp inside the tooth becomes infected or inflamed, which can be caused by a variety of factors such as tooth decay, deep fillings, trauma, or cracks in your teeth. The procedure involves:
- Removing the infected or damaged pulp.
- Cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the tooth.
- Filling it with a special material to prevent re-infection.
The tooth is then sealed with a filling or a crown to restore its strength, integrity, and appearance.
A dentist typically performs root canals in our office. In rare instances, we may refer a patient to an endodontist, a dental specialist who focuses on diagnosing and treating problems with the tooth’s pulp.
Benefits of Getting a Root Canal
Previously, root canals were a major procedure, but they have become relatively standard in dentistry. There are many advantages to this treatment as a root canal:
- Saves an infected or damaged tooth from extraction
- Relieves pain and discomfort caused by tooth infection or inflammation
- Stops the spread of infection to your surrounding teeth and gums
- Preserves the natural appearance of your tooth
- Frees you to chew and speak comfortably
- Maintains your natural bite and teeth alignment
- Avoids the need for costly dental implants or bridges
- Can improve your overall oral health
- Can be completed quickly, usually in one or two visits
- Can extend the life of your treated teeth for many years with proper care and maintenance
Indications for Root Canal Treatment
- Tooth sensitivity to sweets
- Tooth pain to biting pressure
- Impulsive, constant, or intermittent toothache
- Tissue swelling of the face
If you ever have a concern about your oral health, we recommend seeking an expert opinion at our practice as soon as possible. If you require a root canal, it’s best to resolve the issue before it worsens.
What to Expect at Your Root Canal Treatment
Our specialists use the latest rotary techniques to ensure a safe, comfortable, and efficient root canal treatment.
During a root canal, we first numb the area around the tooth to minimise any discomfort. A root canal is not typically painful, as we use local anaesthesia to keep you comfortable. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity afterward, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
Next, we will make a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber. We will carefully remove the infected or damaged pulp, then clean and disinfect the inside of the tooth. Finally, we fill the hole with a special dental material and seal it with a filling or a crown — which may be placed at a follow-up appointment.
You can expect that the entire treatment will take one to two hours to complete; however, this depends on the complexity of your case.
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What to Know After Your Root Canal Treatment
Following treatment, your tooth may feel sensitive for a few days. You will also need to avoid hard or crunchy foods for a few weeks to allow the tooth to heal.
A tooth with a root canal can last decades or a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. However, the tooth may still be at risk for other problems, such as decay or gum disease. Regular visits to the dentist for cleanings, as well as good oral hygiene practices at home, are important to keep the tooth healthy.
