Why would I need Root Canal Treatment?
When a tooth is infected, and whenever there is a sufficient amount of remaining tooth to hold a structure and put the tooth back into function or aesthetic state, the tooth can be saved instead of being extracted, by performing a root canal treatment.
Symptoms of infection:
- Constant pain
- Pain with hot or cold food / drinks
- Pain while eating
- Swelling
- Bad taste in mouth
- Loose tooth
- Discoloured tooth
Process for Root Canal Treatment
The treatment typically takes two visits:
Visit 1
- The tooth infection is removed with instruments that clean the inside of the root canal of the tooth where the nerve lies
- Bacteria in the nerve space are the source of the infection and a paste that kills bacteria inside the root canal is used. It is left to work for at least 1 week
Visit 2
- The paste that was previously left in the root canal is substituted for a solid filling material to seal the root canal and protect it from bacterial invasion
- In order to prevent fracture of a tooth that has had a root canal treatment it is necessary that a protective crown be placed on the tooth
In certain cases, none of the expected symptoms might be experienced, but an x-ray might confirm the need for this treatment.
When sufficient anaesthetic has been administered, and with the right measures to calm the nerve down, a root canal treatment is as painless as having a simple filling done.
Have a look at our sedation page to find out more about how we can make you comfortable during this procedure.
Please contact us today if you have concerns about a tooth and would like to come in for a free consultation.
