Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment may be required to alleviate pain and sensitivity when a nerve or dental tissue inside a tooth becomes infected.

What is exactly is root canal treatment?

When nerves or dental tissue inside the tooth become infected, root canal treatment is a common procedure to treat the infection.

An exposed or inflamed nerve or dental pulp can frequently cause sensitivity and sometimes acute pain. A root canal is an effective and long-lasting solution to relieve discomfort and save your tooth.

What happens during a root canal treatment?

Your dentist will begin by taking X-rays and dental imagery to show the extent of the infection inside the tooth. Root canal treatments are always carried out under local anaesthetic. We numb the area around the tooth to ensure you are as comfortable as possible during the treatment.

The damaged or decayed areas of the tooth are removed in order to access the tooth root canals. Infected nerve tissue and dental pulp are then removed and the canals are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. The canals are then sealed with a dental filling. Following filling, an Inlay or dental crown is used to strengthen and restore the tooth.

How do I know if I need root canal treatment?

Your dentist will advise you if a root canal treatment is required, during your consultation appointment. Particularly for back teeth, signs that may suggest an infection of a root nerve can include:

• Heightened tooth sensitivity
• Toothache or tooth pain
• Pain when biting
• Swelling in the gums
• A darkening on the tooth

Root nerve infections can be caused by a number of factors including physical damage, tooth decay, failing crowns, dislodged fillings or weakening of the tooth from past dental procedures.

If infected root nerves are left untreated, they can cause a great deal of discomfort and tooth pain. Infections can also spread to other parts of the jaw and mouth or lead potentially to an abscess. If you think that you may have a nerve infection, contact the practice to book a consultation.