Mention ‘root canal treatment’, and many people shudder just hearing it!

Well, sit back and relax… it’s actually the solution, not the issue and will often solve the problems associated with agonising toothache or facial swelling.

If your tooth has been knocked, heavily filled, cracked or decayed, this may lead to pain, infection or darkening of your tooth. If any of these symptoms occur, then there is a possibility that your tooth requires root canal treatment. It is also known as endodontic treatment or root canal therapy.

It is a highly skilled area of dentistry and usually involves several visits, it involves removing and cleaning away the infection inside the nerve of your tooth. On completion of your root canal treatment, a biologically compatible rubber material is sealed inside the nerve to prevent infection from reoccurring.

Around 85% of root canal treatments are successful. We use state-of-the-art electronic cleaning and measuring devices which allow your treatment to be much more comfortable, predictable, safer and faster. A referral to a dentist with specialist interest may be required for a better success rate or due to complications of the nerve canal.

The alternative to root canal treatment is extraction. Often, it is better to save your tooth with root canal treatment, particularly if you don’t want to have a gap. Although it is often better to keep your natural tooth, implants, bridges, or dentures are alternatives if you still prefer to have your tooth extracted.

FAQs

What is root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment is a procedure used to treat a tooth when the pulp inside it becomes inflamed or infected. It involves removing the damaged tissue, cleaning and disinfecting the root canals and sealing the tooth.

Why might I need root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment may be recommended because of deep decay, dental trauma, cracks, repeated dental treatment or infection affecting the pulp of the tooth.

Is root canal treatment painful?

Treatment is normally carried out under local anaesthetic, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. The aim is to remove infection and preserve the natural tooth where possible.

What happens during root canal treatment?

Your dentist creates an opening into the tooth, removes the inflamed or infected pulp, cleans and disinfects the root canals and seals them. Some teeth require more than one appointment.

Will I need a crown after root canal treatment?

Some root-treated teeth, particularly heavily weakened back teeth, benefit from a crown or other protective restoration. Your dentist will advise based on the amount of healthy tooth structure remaining.

What happens if I do not have root canal treatment?

If an infected or inflamed tooth is left untreated, the problem may worsen and the tooth may eventually require extraction. Your dentist will discuss the options, benefits and risks.

How long does root canal treatment take?

The number and length of appointments depend on the tooth, the complexity of the canals and the level of infection. Your dentist will explain the expected treatment plan.