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Root canal treatment

Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic treatment, is a procedure, which is often called upon when the vital tissue within the tooth, the pulp, becomes infected or damaged. In many cases, root canal treatment offers an alternative to extraction.

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Why would I need root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment may be recommended in cases where the tooth nerve has become exposed or inflamed, or the tooth is infected. If the pulp tissue is affected, the tooth will effectively start to die, as this is the segment of the tooth that contains living matter. The pulp contains blood vessels and nerves, and if blood supply is reduced to the tooth, there is often no choice but to carry out root canal treatment or extract the affected tooth. Losing a tooth is a last resort, and root canal treatment can be an incredibly effective alternative.

Symptoms of pulp damage include:

  • Pain
  • Extreme sensitivity
  • Tooth discolouration
  • Tenderness and swelling in the gums
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What does root canal treatment involve?

Before you have treatment, our dentist will explain what the procedure entails and answer any questions you have. Once you’re comfortable, they will give you a local anaesthetic, which will prevent you from feeling any pain. When your tooth is completely numb, your dentist will create a small hole in the tooth using a drill. This will enable the dentist to access the root canals.
The next step is to remove decayed and damaged pulp tissue from the root canals before clearing and cleaning the canals thoroughly and then filling them with material known as gutta percha. Finally, the hole will be sealed. The process helps to prevent the spread of infection and will also strengthen the tooth.
Following root canal treatment, it’s common to crown the tooth to protect it against further damage. A temporary crown will be placed and then replaced with a permanent restoration 2 weeks later.

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FAQs

For many people, root canal treatment offers an alternative to losing their natural tooth. This is a procedure, which can enable you to keep your smile in check and also prevent the spread of infection and any more unwanted symptoms like tooth pain.

Many people assume that root canal treatment is incredibly painful, but the procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic. Your tooth will be completely numb, and you won’t feel anything. After treatment, once the effects of the local anaesthetic have worn off, you may find that your tooth feels a little tender, and you can ease any discomfort by taking over the counter painkillers.

dentist will assess the condition of your tooth during the procedure and talk to you about whether or not it’s a good idea to crown the tooth. In many cases, adding a crown makes the tooth stronger and prevents further damage.

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