Root Canal Therapy is a procedure that allows us to treat a compromised tooth without extraction. Root canal therapy can provide significant pain relief in the short term while saving your tooth in the long term.
The ‘living’ part of your tooth is known as the pulp, which consists of sensitive nerves and blood vessels. In the event of infection or inflammation (caused by tooth decay, trauma or deep enamel cracks) the pulp can become very painful and, left untreated, may result in further complications. Root canal therapy is a procedure in which the infected pulp is removed in order to save the tooth and prevent further infection.
Root canal therapy may be recommended when the affected tooth can be realistically saved in the long term. If the tooth is not severely damaged and the surrounding gum is relatively healthy, root canal therapy is often a suitable treatment option.
At Somersmiles Dental, patient care is our top priority. While root canal therapy has a reputation for being an unpleasant procedure, we aim to make your treatment as comfortable as possible.
Before your procedure you will have a consultation with your dentist and treatment coordinator to assess what dental work is required and to discuss the various options for ensuring your comfort during the procedure. These options include local anaesthetic, happy gas or even sleep dentistry where a state of twilight sedation is induced. We encourage you to read more about Sleep Dentistry here. During your consultation you’ll have the opportunity to ask any questions and sign a consent form before proceeding.
First and foremost, we take the necessary steps to minimise any discomfort in accordance with your treatment plan, whether that be local anaesthetic, happy gas or sleep dentistry.
Your dentist will then remove the diseased pulp tissue with very small files. Next, your dentist will clean, shape and disinfect the hollow area before filling the tooth with a rubber-like material, using adhesive cement to seal the canal completely.
After your root canal therapy has been completed, we will provide you with a post-procedure care and recovery information sheet as well as a take-home care pack.
In the days following your procedure your tooth may be sore or tender. This is a common part of the healing process and may last for a few days. Your dentist will provide you with advice on what to expect during your recovery. As always, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene following your procedure.
Root canal therapy is often followed by the placement of a dental crown, depending on your individual clinical needs. Your dentist will discuss whether this is recommended for your tooth to help protect it from further damage.
For more information or to book a consultation call us on 5978 0595 or send an enquiry.
