Root Canals

Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic treatment, is the process of removing infected, injured or dead pulp from your tooth. The space inside the hard layers of each tooth is called the root canal system. This system is filled with soft dental pulp made up of nerves and blood vessels that help your tooth grow and develop. When the nerve of your tooth becomes infected, a successful root canal treatment lets you keep the tooth rather than having to extract it. Keeping your tooth helps to prevent your other teeth from drifting out of line and causing jaw problems and avoids having to replace it with an artificial tooth.

What Happens During A Root Canal?

A root canal is a procedure that often involves two or three visits. First is an exam is done where the dentist will to determine the extent of the infection and discuss treatment plans and will usually take X-rays to get a clearer picture. If a root canal is required, the procedure will usually be completed in 1-2 appointments.

Although procedures can vary according to your situation and practitioner preferences, on the day of the procedure itself you can expect something similar to:

1. Anaesthesia will be used to numb the area.
2. Using a rubber dam, your dentist will aim to keep the area saliva free and dry.
3. Access will be created through the tooth by drilling a hole.
4. Bacteria, decay and debris will then be removed via the hole along with the pulp using root canal files.
5. The area will be flushed periodically to ensure it is cleaned effectively.
6. The sides of the root canals are scraped and antibiotics or medication may be administered directly to the site to clear any lingering bacteria or signs of infection.
7. Additional xrays are also taken during the procedure.

Depending on the extent of damage and how long this has taken, your dentist may stop during the procedure and fill the access hole with a temporary filling. The temporary filling will block the hole to avoid it from getting contaminated and keep substances out to reduce the risk of further infection before your next appointment.

However, if your dentist continues with the same procedure you can expect:

8. The inside of the tooth to be filled with a specific compound while the access hole is provided with a regular filling.
9. If the tooth itself is badly damaged beyond the restoration of an ordinary filling, it may need to be repaired with a crown but your dentist will discuss this with you.

Why Do I Need A Root Canal>

When the pulp and nerve of a tooth becomes infected or inflamed the tooth will need a root canal. This inflammation or infection can be due to a variety of reasons including:

• Face trauma
• Chipped or cracked teeth
• Large fillings
• Extensive procedures on the same tooth
• Extensive tooth decay

Signs You May Need A Root Canal

• Tooth darkening
• Gum tenderness or swelling
• Pimple on the gums (sign of draining infection)
• Temperature sensitivity (which continues after the source has been removed)
• Pressure such as chewing causing severe or excruciating pain

If you feel like you may need a root canal or are looking for relief, contact us to arrange a consultation with one of our dentists.