Root canals

Root Canal Treatments

Root Canal Treatments

Endodontics is the area of dentistry dealing with root canals.

If the blood or the nerve supply of the tooth (known as the pulp) is infected either through decay or injury, the infection may spread through the root canal system of the tooth. In the early stages you may not feel any pain. In some cases the tooth may darken in colour.

The infection may lead to an abscess and the symptoms can vary from a dull ache to severe pain and the tooth may be tender when you bite. If root canal treatment is not performed, the infection may spread and the tooth may need to be taken out.

The purpose of the treatment is to treat or prevent infection by elimination of bacteria from the root canals. This is done by making a hole through the top of the tooth into the pulp chamber. The root canals are located and measured. They are then cleaned, disinfected and widened with very fine files. The canals are then filled to prevent any recurrence.

Our dentists would be able to tell you about the chances of success through root canal treatment, as in some cases the tooth decay may have advanced so much that the tooth is not saveable. We have a dentist with advanced level of expertise who enjoys a high level of success in treatment. However, please note that 100% of any medical procedure is never guaranteed.

After root treatment, it is important to restore the tooth, usually with a crown in order to protect it from further exposure to infection and to strengthen the tooth.

Is it painful?

No. Local anaesthesia is used throughout the procedure and every possible step is taken to ensure that you are comfortable while the work is being carried out. Following treatment there is a possibility of discomfort. This is usually minor, does not last long and responds to mild analgesics.