Root Canal Treatments
A Root Canal Treatment can save an infected or damaged tooth. The tooth may have become infected or damaged by decay, large fillings close to the nerve of the tooth, wear and tear, cracked fillings or an injury to the tooth.
Root Canal Treatment involves drilling a hole into the tooth and removing the soft centre, known as the dental pulp. The dental pulp is made up of connective tissue, nerves and blood supply, and extends into the roots of the tooth. This procedure is done under a dental dam which keeps your tooth sterile. After the pulp is removed, the space is filled and sealed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Usually, 2 or 3 appointments are required to ensure that all the infection has been eliminated. This also allows the dentist to properly clean and shape the canals inside your tooth. In between appointments your tooth will have a dressing of antibiotics and a temporary filling.
Saving your own tooth is important. Losing a tooth can lead to other problems in the mouth like tooth movement and lack of chewing ability.
Replacing a lost tooth with an artificial one often needs more complex dental procedures. Root canal treatment is still often the best way of saving a tooth.
The most common signs are severe toothache and sensitivity to temperature and chewing. Other signs are swelling and draining pus from the gums. The tooth may also be loose and or darkened.
