What is root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment is a dental procedure used to treat and save an infected or dead tooth. It involves removing the damaged nerve, cleaning and disinfecting it and then filling and sealing. Common causes resulting in the need for root canal treatment are a cracked tooth, a deep cavity/filling or trauma.
Alternatively, it is also possible to extract an infected tooth and then replace it with a dental implant or denture, although it is often preferable to try and save natural teeth where feasible.
At Infinity Dental Clinic we use the latest and most state-of-the-art technology, including being one of only a few dental practices to invest in an endodontic microscope, to provide our patients with the highest standards of care in the field of endodontics (root canal treatment).
Why may I need root canal treatment?
Infection in the nerve chamber of the tooth causes the nerve to die. Once the nerve has been irreversibly damaged it is no longer possible to treat the tooth with a filling and endodontic treatment is required. This may be diagnosed by your Dentist either from your symptoms, clinical examination or from an x-ray. Dr James David is our lead Endodontist at carrying out root canal treatment, getting people out of pain and saving patient’s teeth.
What to expect with root canal treatment?
The tooth will be made completely numb, so you can’t feel a thing. The first stage involves creating a small access opening in the biting surface of the tooth . This allows your Dentist to remove the inflamed nerve then clean, shape and prepare the root canals. Once this has been completed the chamber is then filled with a rubbery material to seal off the root canals.
Root Canal Treatment FAQs:
Is root canal treatment painful?
Don’t believe the myths! Our Dentists will ensure the affected tooth is completely numb ensuring a comfortable procedure. There is no reason why having Endodontic treatment should cause any more discomfort than any other dental treatment.
How long does root canal treatment take?
It is often possible to complete this treatment in one or two 40-60 minute appointments. In complex cases it may take more than one appointment to ensure the infection is fully removed.
What happens after root canal treatment?
As the centre of the tooth has been removed to place the root filling, the tooth will have become weakened and will usually require a crown. Crowns not only improve the tooth’s strength, reducing the chance of fracture, but they also helps to prevent reinfection by improving the seal.
At Infinity Dental Clinic our Dentists will ensure that the fillings and crowns look and feel like natural teeth.
How much does Endodontic cost?
Here at Infinity Dental Clinic we work hard to find a solution that meets all our patients expectations on desired outcome both clinically and financially. We will supply you with all relevant treatment options and the associated prices involved, allowing you to make the right decision for you regarding your dental care.
