Why might I need a Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatments are procedures designed to save teeth that have become severely damaged or infected, primarily due to deep decay or trauma.
When the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels, becomes inflamed or infected, it can lead to significant pain, infections and swellings and bone loss if not addressed promptly.
By removing the infected pulp and thoroughly cleaning the root canal systems, the treatment helps to eliminate infection and prevents the spread of bacteria to surrounding tissues.
How is a Root Canal Treatment performed?
The technique is illustrated in an informative video created by Colgate. It entails drilling a channel through the top of the tooth to access the nerve. The next steps involve cleaning and disinfecting the root system, followed by sealing the chamber. This procedure typically requires a minimum of one hour; however, due to the complex nature of the root system, multiple appointments may be necessary for completion.
Root canal treatment generally boasts a high success rate over the years, and, in cases of failure, a re-treatment option may be available, known as Root Canal Retreatment.
Teeth requiring root canal treatment due to trauma or decay often have significant portions of enamel missing. In areas subjected to high biting forces, we recommend restoring the tooth with a crown as promptly as possible following root canal treatment to mitigate the risk of fracture. For more information regarding crowns, please refer to the section below
If you are curious for more information on root canal treatment, please follow the link below:
British Endodontic Society: Root canal treatment information