ROOT CANAL TREATMENT
Teeth extend far below the visible gum line into the roots which sit below the gums. Within the roots is the teeth pulp which contains blood and nerves that supply each tooth.
An infection or inflammation within the pulp of your tooth means you may require a root canal treatment.
Root canals are one of the many dental procedures we carry out at our practice. The procedure aims to ensure you are free from discomfort due to the inflammation or infection, and that your natural tooth can be saved.
Naturally, you may be apprehensive about a root canal treatment. However, our caring and attentive staff will help put you at ease before and during the procedure.
Root Canal Treatment Rochdale
One Dental offers a wide range of dental treatments to our NHS and private patients in Rochdale, Greater Manchester. This includes root canal treatment as part of our general dentistry services.
What Does A Root Canal Treatment Involve?
First, your dentist will numb the tooth so that you won’t feel anything during the procedure. A small shield will be used to isolate the tooth so that it is kept clean and dry.
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An opening will be made in the crown of the tooth exposing the pulp underneath. Fluid is flushed into the pulp canal which will kill any bacteria, as well as help rinse out any debris.
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The pulp will then be removed before the canals are cleaned and shaped. The root canals will be filled and sealed. In most cases, a temporary filling is used to close the opening. You will then need to return to your dentist for a permanent filling or a crown.
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A tooth that has a root canal treatment often has a very long lifespan, especially if diligent oral hygiene is observed.
Some patients experience mild soreness following a root canal treatment. However, this should subside within a few days.
Signs You May Need A Root Canal
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Pain when chewing
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Persistent pimples on the gums
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Severe tooth sensitivity
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Swollen gums
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Tooth discolouration
Reasons For Needing A Root Canal
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A broken crown
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A cracked tooth
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Cracked or loose fillings
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Gum disease
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Injury
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Repeated dental treatment on the tooth
Preparing For A Root Canal
Root canals are either performed by a dentist or an endodontist for more complex cases. An endodontist is someone who specialises in root canals.
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The first stage will involve your dentist or endodontist examining your teeth, along with asking you about any problems you are having with your teeth. This includes asking you about any previous dental treatments.
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An x-ray will then be taken of your teeth to help diagnose the issue. The results will also determine whether your tooth is suitable for a root canal, as an extraction may be required if the damage is too far gone.
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You will be awake for your root canal treatment, which will be spread over two appointments. However, your face will be numbed with a local anaesthetic to minimise any discomfort.
What Is A Root Canal?
Root canals are a dentistry procedure that falls under the specialism of endodontists. Essentially, endodontists deal with the pulp of your tooth which supplies the nerves and blood supply to the rest of the tooth. The pulp can be found under the enamel and dentin.
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A root canal is needed when there is an infection or inflammation within the tooth pulp. The aim is to remove the damage to eliminate any pain and discomfort, as well as preventing the need for tooth extraction.
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If a root canal isn’t dealt with, it can lead to further complications. This includes the formation of an abscess, which is a collection of pus and can cause pain in your teeth and jaw.
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In some cases, your tooth may appear a darker colour due to an infection within the pulp, which indicates the nerve inside the tooth is dying. Therefore, a root canal is the best chance at preserving the tooth to avoid extraction.
Recovering From A Root Canal Treatment
A local anaesthetic is applied during a root canal, which may take several hours to wear off completely. You should take care to rest and avoid bumping your face while you recover.
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You can take over the counter painkillers to help with any discomfort. Always read the label and ask your pharmacist for advice.
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It is unusual that pain will persist following a root canal. However, if this is the case please contact us so that we can help you.
Keeping Your Mouth Healthy Following A Root Canal
As with any dental procedure, your approach to oral hygiene is going to have the biggest impact when it comes to avoiding future issues with your teeth and gums. Therefore, we advise the following:
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Brush your teeth twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste
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Use floss and interdental brushes daily
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Use mouthwash daily if recommended by your dentist
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Avoid smoking
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Avoid sugary foods and fizzy drinks
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Continue to see us for regular dental checkups
Root Canal Alternatives
The idea of a root canal is to repair a damaged tooth. However, in some cases, the damage isn’t fixable. This can either be due to the extent of the damage or if you have gum disease meaning your tooth would fail to heal following the treatment. In such cases, the only alternative would be to extract the tooth.
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We do offer a range of options to replace missing teeth. This includes dental implants, bridges and partial dentures. Therefore, while daunting, tooth extraction most certainly doesn’t have to mean a permanent gap in your teeth.
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Depending on the nature of your tooth infection or inflammation, we would be more than happy to guide you through all the possible alternatives if a root canal isn’t possible.
