At Experteeth Dental, we understand that the thought of a root canal can feel daunting. That’s why our experienced team is here to provide gentle, effective care to save your tooth and relieve your discomfort. Root canal treatment is a common dental procedure designed to repair and preserve a tooth that has become infected or severely damaged, helping you maintain your natural smile.
What is Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment (also known as endodontic therapy) is a procedure to treat infection or damage within the tooth’s pulp—the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes infected due to deep decay, cracks, trauma, or repeated dental work, it can cause pain, swelling, or even an abscess if left untreated. A root canal removes the affected pulp, cleans the inside of the tooth, and seals it to prevent further issues.
Why Might You Need a Root Canal?
You may need a root canal if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Persistent or severe tooth pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers even after the stimulus is gone
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums near the affected tooth
- A darkened or discoloured tooth
- A pimple-like bump on the gums (indicating an abscess)
If you’re noticing these signs, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible. Early treatment can save your tooth and prevent more serious complications.
What Does Root Canal Treatment Involve?
Root canal treatment is a straightforward process carried out by our skilled dentists at Experteeth Dental. Here’s what you can expect:
- Consultation and Diagnosis
We’ll start with a thorough examination, including X-rays, to assess the extent of the damage and confirm whether a root canal is needed. - Local Anaesthetic
To ensure your comfort, we’ll administer a local anaesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. You’ll be awake but won’t feel any pain during the procedure. - Accessing the Pulp
The dentist will create a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the infected or damaged pulp. - Cleaning and Shaping
Using specialised tools, we’ll carefully remove the affected pulp and clean the root canals (the tiny pathways inside the tooth’s roots). The canals are then shaped and disinfected to eliminate bacteria. - Filling and Sealing
Once cleaned, the canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. The tooth is then sealed with a temporary or permanent filling to protect it. - Restoration
In most cases, a tooth that has had a root canal will need a crown or additional restoration to strengthen it and restore its function. We’ll discuss the best option for you.
The procedure typically takes one or two appointments, depending on the complexity of the case and your individual needs.
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
- Pain Relief: Eliminates discomfort caused by infection or inflammation.
- Tooth Preservation: Saves your natural tooth, avoiding the need for extraction.
- Improved Oral Health: Prevents the spread of infection to surrounding teeth or gums.
- Natural Appearance: Restores your tooth so it looks and functions like normal.
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