Root Canal Treatment.
Looking to save a tooth that has become severely infected or decayed? Have an examination with one of our dentists to see if root canal treatment is a suitable option.
Some signs you may need a root canal treatment include;
-Spontaneous pain even when you’re not drinking or eating
-Pain that wakes you in the the night
-Toothache that worsens when pressure is applied or when eating
-Discoloration of a single tooth- often one that has had a knock historically
-Recurring swelling of the gums (abscess)
-Significant sensitivity to cold or heat
What is involved in root canal treatment
Your dentist will carefully check the tooth or the painful area. Special tests and X-rays will be taken to help locate the problem tooth. Local anesthetic and pain relief medications are used to make the tooth comfortable and pain free.
A small hole is drilled through the top of the tooth and decayed tooth tissue is carefully removed.
Very fine files are used to clean the inside of the tooth. The tooth is washed with a sterilizing solution and the tooth measured for length.
The root canal procedure can take two or more appointments. In between appointments your tooth will have a temporary filling and a medication will be placed in the root canal to resolve any infection. Antibiotics may also be prescribed.
The root canal is filled with a material called gutta percha and a dental filling placed on top.
It is recommended that a dental crown is placed approximately 6 months after having a root canal as the root canal process can make the tooth brittle and prone to fracture.