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Root Canal Treatment |
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What is a root canal?
The root canal is the area inside the centre
of the tooth that houses the nerve and blood
supply.This becomes a larger space towards
the top of the tooth known as the 'pulp'. Some
teeth have only one root canal whilst larger
teeth towards the back of the mouth can have
up to four.
When would I need root canal treatment?
Root canal (or endodontic) treatment is needed when the pulp
becomes affected by decay or trauma. In these situations, it can
become infected leading to inflammation and pain. In more
severe cases the tooth can become 'non-vital', which means that
it loses its blood supply altogether.Once the pulp becomes
infected, the bacteria can spread through the root canal system
and lead to the development of an abscess.
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When would I need root canal treatment?
Root canal (or endodontic) treatment is needed when the pulp
becomes affected by decay or trauma. In these situations, it can
become infected leading to inflammation and pain. In more
severe cases the tooth can become 'non-vital', which means that
it loses its blood supply altogether.Once the pulp becomes
infected, the bacteria can spread through the root canal system
and lead to the development of an abscess.
What does the treatment involve?
Root canal treatment aims to remove all infection and debris
from the infected tooth. It is a skilled and time-consuming
procedure that usually requires two or more visits.This
treatment is complex because the dentist is working inside
the tooth to very small tolerances. Root canal treatment
consists of the following stages:
- Removing the remains of the infected pulp and, if an
abscess is present, allowing it to drain
- Cleaning and shaping of the root canals ready for filling
- Putting in a temporary filling
- Checking the tooth at a later visit, to ensure that the
infection is cleared and if so, filling the canal/s permanently
- Restoring the rest of the tooth
Do root treatments always work?
Root canal treatments are usually successful and the infection
is eradicated. If infection recurs, the treatment can be
repeated. In rare instances it is possible to lose a tooth.
Are root canal treatments comfortable?
As with all modern dental techniques, local anaesthetics make
root canal treatments comfortable.Your experience of having
this kind of treatment should be little different to that of
having a normal filling. Sometimes the treated tooth can be
tender to pressure, such as biting, for a day or two after the
treatment.This usually subsides quite quickly.
Will root canal treatment change the colour of my tooth?
A tooth that has had root treatment can darken in colour
over time.This used to happen more frequently than it does
today since modern techniques have improved the process.
If there is any discolouration, there are several treatments
that can be undertaken to give the tooth a more natural
appearance. For example, it is possible to lighten root treated
teeth, or alternatively, your dentist may suggest that the tooth
should be crowned or veneered.
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Will my tooth be weakened by the treatment?
It is generally thought that root treated teeth are not as
strong as normal ones. Whether this will necessitate further
treatment to strengthen the tooth will depend upon its
position in the mouth and the amount of damage or decay
that led to the root canal treatment in the first place.Your
dentist will advise whether it is necessary to have a crown
or other restoration fitted for extra strength.
Is there an alternative to root canal treatment?
Once the tooth has become non-vital and an abscess has
developed, the only alternative to root canal treatment would
be to have the tooth extracted.This is because pulp is unable to
heal and it is inadvisable to leave an infected tooth in the mouth.
How do I care for my teeth after root canal treatment?
There are no special precautions after root canal treatment.
You can eat quite normally and brush or floss your teeth as
usual. As always, you should avoid holding hard objects such
as pins or nails between the teeth.
Regular check-ups with your dentist and hygienist are essential
to maintain the health of your teeth and gums.
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List Of Treatments Download Brochure
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