Root Canal Treatment
Root Canal Treatment Thornton
Endodontic treatment, commonly called a root canal, removes a tooth’s pulp and fills it with a filling material.
When you have much decay in your teeth, there is a high likelihood that the pulp in the tooth will be infected. The infection can spread down the roots of your tooth and cause painful abscesses, which, if left untreated, can result in tooth loss. Success rates for endodontic treatment are generally reasonable.
Estimates show that approximately 90 to 95 per cent of patients who opt for root canal treatment are likely to have a functional tooth after treatment. The treated tooth should last many years, given that you care properly for your teeth and oral health.
An infected/traumatised tooth can be very painful and may/may not be associated with swelling or, in more severe cases, swelling, which extends into the surrounding tissues.
The tooth is often sore to pressure, such as biting and thermal changes. An infected tooth may also cause discomfort that wakes a patient from sleep and is not necessarily relieved by analgesics. All dentists are trained in root canal treatment procedures; however, patients may also be referred to an Endodontist, a dental specialist specialising in root canal therapy procedures.
Symptoms of Nerve Damage of Tooth
- Intense or impulsive discomfort
- Heat and cold sensitivity in foods and beverages
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Pain waking up during sleep
- Inflammation of the gums around problematic teeth
- Pus formation around the affected tooth
- Facial swelling
Tooth pulp may also be damaged or diseased, which may not initially feel in the mouth. In such instances, the condition is often discovered through specific tests or x-rays when the patient is already getting a dental checkup or receiving treatment for other dental issues.
What are the Signs that a Root Canal is Needed?
Endodontic service may be necessary if the nerve or pulp of a tooth has been damaged or become infected or inflamed. Infections and inflammation can occur due to:
- Advanced gum disease
- Repeated treatment on a tooth
- Breakdown of an existing filling or crown
- Extreme wear of a tooth
- Deep-seated tooth decay
- Cracked teeth
- Trauma that damages a tooth
- Decay beneath a deep filling
What to Expect
Surgery involves removing the inflamed or infected pulp in the tooth. During the procedure, the canal in each root containing the nerve is modified and shaped to accommodate filling material; the canals where the nerves were removed are then filled with this material. The procedure may take 3 to 4 appointments, depending on the tooth, history, infection, and other factors. Antibacterial dressings may also be applied to the tooth before the next dental appointment to help heal and minimise inflammation and infection.
A temporary filling protects the tooth between appointments. After the root canal is completed, your Thornton, Maitland NSW dentist may advise that you opt for a filling or a dental crown over the tooth for long-term stability.
The cost of this procedure will depend on the number of root canals in the particular tooth. All patients will be given a comprehensive treatment plan and cost breakdown for the recommended guidelines. Sometimes, the dentist may recommend tooth extraction as an alternative if the infection has spread and if the chance of saving the tooth is minimal. The dentist will do everything possible to save the affected tooth or teeth and discuss all the possible options with you before starting any treatment.
Root Canal Treatment in Thornton
Thornton Dental offers modern and pain-free dental services and will provide the most efficient and comfortable treatments. Our team comprises highly skilled dental professionals with extensive knowledge of root canal therapy and other complex dental procedures.
Call us on (02) 4966 2996 to book your appointment online today!
As with any invasive or surgical procedure, risk is always involved. Hence, we suggest you consult an appropriately licensed medical professional and discuss your situation before proceeding.
Visit us at Thornton Shopping Centre, Shop 30/1 Taylor Ave in Thornton.
FAQs
What is a root canal treatment?
The dental procedure known as “root canal therapy” involves:
- Extracting diseased or damaged pulp from inside a tooth.
- Cleaning and disinfecting the surrounding area.
- Sealing it to stop further infection.
Why do I need a root canal?
You may need a root canal if you experience severe toothache, swelling, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, or an abscess from deep decay or damage.
Is a root canal painful?
Root canals are performed under local anaesthesia, making the procedure relatively painless. Any discomfort following therapy is often minor and temporary.
How long does a root canal take?
Depending on the tooth’s complexity, a root canal usually requires one to 2 appointments, each lasting sixty to ninety minutes.
What happens after a root canal?
After a root canal, your dentist may place a crown on the tooth to restore its strength and function. Good dental hygiene and regular checkups are essential for long-term success.
Are there any risks or complications?
While root canals are generally safe, potential risks include infection, damage to surrounding structures, or incomplete removal of the infected tissue, which may require further treatment.
How long does a root canal-treated tooth last?
Proper maintenance means a tooth with a root canal treatment can last a lifetime. Regular dentist appointments and appropriate oral hygiene practices are vital for longevity.
Are there alternatives to root canal treatment?
Tooth extraction is the primary option for a root canal. However, to preserve good chewing function and aesthetics, it is frequently chosen to save the native tooth with a root canal.