Teeth can become infected through a number of different reasons. If bacteria is able to enter the tooth, the vulnerable soft tissues inside become under attack. Using root canal treatment, endodontics, we remove the infected tissue, saving the tooth from needing to be extracted.
Why do I need root canal treatment?
Having an infected tooth can lead to a bunch of issues. The swollen tissue can become painful so it’s important for us to alleviate any pain and address the problem quickly.
If left untreated, an infection can lead to an abscess and further infection if it’s allowed to spread. Root canal treatment removes the infection completely, stopping it in its tracks. The root canals are flushed clean and disinfected, leaving the tooth free of bacteria.
Endodontic treatment is a much more affordable and less invasive treatment than replacing the tooth completely. We use either a filling or a crown to repair the tooth, leaving it as good as new.
What does the treatment involve?
Endodontic treatment can take more than one appointment to fully remove the pulp and restore the tooth.
We first take necessary x-rays to determine the condition of the root canals and the extent of the damage. We then use local anaesthetic to reduce any discomfort during the treatment.
We enter the tooth and remove the pulp completely. To make sure we remove all traces of the infection, we shape the canals and flush them through with a disinfecting solution. The chambers are plugged in and sealed off.
We repair the external structure of the tooth using white composite, rebuilding the tooth to its former glory. We can use porcelain crowns to completely restore the tooth if there has been any discolouration as a result of the infection.
Looking after your treated tooth
While the tooth will no longer be vulnerable to infection, the same can’t be said of the gums surrounding the tooth. Great oral care will protect your gums from bacteria, preventing gum disease which, if left untreated, can cause gums to recede or result in tooth loss.