Root Canal Treatment

What is a root canal?

Root canal, although it may sound painful, is in fact not as painful as they say. It’s a procedure meant to remove infected or inflamed pulp from the inside of the tooth. The inside is then sterilised, filled and closed.

Teeth are made up of three layers: enamel, dentin, and the pulp, which is the core of the tooth where the tissue and nerves are located. When your tooth is cracked or damaged, the pulp can become exposed, and the tissue can become contaminated and infected. This may cause a serious toothache when eating, sensitive teeth, and tender gums near the infected tooth.

When is a root canal required?

Root canal treatment is needed when there is an infection deep in the tooth's pulp, and dental decay begins. Timely treatment can save your tooth and prevent the need for extraction, helping you feel more confident about maintaining your smile.

What does root canal treatment involve?

It's a carefully planned process that begins with assessment using X-rays, followed by removal of infected tissue, disinfection, and sealing. This approach aims to save your natural tooth and restore your oral health.

A temporary filling is placed to protect the tooth and prevent cracking until the final crown is ready. The treatment typically involves two appointments, allowing you to feel supported throughout. The final crown is custom-made and fitted in the follow-up appointment, completing your restoration with care.

What can I expect after?

These days, endodontic surgery is performed using advanced technology and techniques; thus, your comfort is prioritised during this procedure. You may experience moderate pain and sensitivity of the tooth and some gum soreness for a few days after the surgery, but pain medication will be prescribed. Rest assured, this discomfort is temporary and should improve within a few days. Afterwards, avoid hard substances and be very gentle with the tooth before the crown is fitted. Thereafter, your pain should subside, and once the crown is fitted, you should be back to normal.

Root Canal

root-canal-treatment-1
In a healthy tooth, the innermost pulp layer containing the nerves and blood vessels for the tooth is intact. This pulp tissue keeps the tooth vital.
root-canal-treatment-2
Dental decay can cause the pulp tissue to die, creating toxic by products. An infectious process begins causing pain and pressure within the root, and eventually an abscess forms.
root-canal-treatment-3
When root canal treatment is performed, an opening is created through the top of the tooth to gain access to the pulp. The decayed tissue and infectious debris is cleaned out of the canals using small files.
root-canal-treatment-4
Once the canals have been thoroughly cleaned and are free of bacteria, they are sealed with a filling material and usually the abscess will heal. A temporary filling is used to close the opening in the tooth until the final restoration is placed.