Root canal treatment (also known as endodontic treatment) is a dental procedure used to treat infection at the centre of a tooth. Such infection is caused by bacteria that already live in the mouth and have been able to invade the tooth because of decay (or previously treated decay and subsequent deep fillings), leaky fillings, or from trauma.
If a tooth is infected there are two options available; remove the tooth completely or to undergo a root canal and try and save the tooth. The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic, so it should feel similar to a filling. The inside of the infected tooth is cleaned and disinfected using special dental instruments. Once cleaned, the root canal system is then filled.
Root canal treatment is a highly skilled procedure that takes time to complete. It has an 80% success rate depending on the level of complexity and anatomy of the root canal system of the tooth. After the treatment has been carried out, the tooth can be more fragile. Evidence shows that placing a crown on top of a tooth that has had root canal treatment will protect the tooth from future fracture and also increase the success rate of root canal treatment (particularly if it is a back tooth). It is especially important to take care of the tooth after treatment by regular maintenance to help ensure the continued success of the root canal and crown treatment.
Root Canal treatment
There are usually some common symptoms which can help identify your teeth may need a root canal or other dental treatment:
We typically recommend completing Root Canals over two or three appointments. Please see below what to expect during these appointments:
Don’t forget to attend regular dentist checkups to help monitor your root canal for issues, and for your overall dental health!
Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic treatment, is a procedure used to save an infected or decayed tooth. It involves removing the infected or damaged pulp from the tooth’s root canal, cleaning and disinfecting the area, and then sealing it to prevent further infection.
Root canal therapy is necessary when the pulp, the soft tissue inside the tooth, becomes infected or damaged. This can happen due to untreated cavities, cracked or chipped teeth, or trauma to the tooth. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the surrounding tissues and cause severe pain, abscesses, and even tooth loss.
Some common signs that you may need a root canal include severe toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, swelling and tenderness around the tooth, darkening of the tooth, and a recurring pimple on the gums. However, only a dentist can determine if a root canal is necessary after conducting a thorough examination.
Contrary to popular belief, root canal therapy is not as painful as people think. With modern advancements in dental technology and anesthesia, the procedure is relatively painless. Most patients report feeling minimal discomfort during and after the procedure. Your dentist will also prescribe medication to alleviate any post-operative pain or discomfort.
The length of a root canal procedure can vary depending on the complexity of the case. On average, it takes one to two appointments to complete a root canal. The first appointment typically involves cleaning out the infected pulp and applying medication. The second appointment focuses on sealing the root canal and placing a dental crown or filling on the tooth.
While root canal therapy is a highly successful procedure, there is a slight chance of failure. It can occur if the tooth was not properly cleaned and disinfected, the canals were not thoroughly sealed, or if a new infection develops. In such cases, retreatment or an apicoectomy, which involves removing the tip of the tooth’s root, may be necessary.
With proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, a root canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime. However, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly, to ensure the longevity of the restored tooth.
The only alternative to root canal therapy is tooth extraction. However, extracting a tooth should be considered a last resort, as it can lead to other problems such as shifting of teeth, difficulty chewing, and loss of bone in the jaw. It is generally recommended to save the natural tooth whenever possible.
Generally, you should be able to drive home after a root canal procedure. However, if you received sedation or anesthesia during the treatment, you may feel lightheaded or drowsy afterwards. In such cases, it is best to have someone accompany you or arrange for transportation.
After a root canal, it is best to avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the permanent filling or dental crown is placed. This is to prevent any damage to the tooth. However, you can typically resume your regular diet once the tooth is fully restored.
Yes, root canal therapy is a safe and common dental procedure. Dentists are trained and experienced in performing root canals, ensuring patient safety and comfort. By addressing the underlying infection and preserving the natural tooth, root canal therapy can help restore oral health and function.
No, root canal therapy can be performed on children as well. Baby teeth, also known as primary teeth, play a crucial role in the development of permanent teeth and should be preserved whenever possible. Your dentist will determine if root canal therapy is suitable for your child based on their specific case.
In conclusion, root canal therapy is a safe and effective treatment for saving infected or damaged teeth. With the use of modern dental techniques, the procedure has become relatively painless. If you experience tooth pain or other symptoms, it is essential to consult with a dentist, who can diagnose the problem and recommend the appropriate treatment option for your specific dental needs.
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Philip Ward
“I contacted Thames Street Dental for an emergency root canal issue. They made every effort to treat me as quickly as possible and I have been a regular patient since then. The treatment, efficiency and general approach of both Dr Ruparel and all of the staff has always been that of, nothing is too much trouble. The practice has done everything that could be expected to make my visits and treatments as easy and time-efficient as they could. The dental work has been considered, explained and expertly administered. I will certainly continue to be a patient of this lovely family practice for the foreseeable future.”
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