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Root Canal Treatment North East
Root Canal Treatment
| Q |
What is root canal treatment? |
| A |
Root canal treatment (also called endodontic treatment, root filling or deep root filling) is treatment of the nerve and blood supply of the tooth (known as the pulp) if it has been damaged through infection, decay or injury. |
| Q |
Why doesn't my own dentist do the treatment? |
| A |
Root canal treatment is a skilled and complex procedure. As a practice that receives referrals from all over the region we have been able to invest in extra training and equipment, such as our surgical microscope and The Wand. Recent changes to the regulations governing root canal treatment have meant that many more dentists now refer patients for their treatment. |
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Q |
Why is root canal treatment needed? |
| A |
If the pulp becomes infected, the infection will spread to the tip of root of the tooth where it will form an abscess.
An abscess can be very painful and, if left untreated, usually means that the tooth has to be taken out. |
| Q |
Does it hurt? |
| A |
No. A local anaesthetic is used and it should feel no different to having an ordinary filling done. We also offer The Wand to avoid painful dental injections. |
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Q |
What does it involve? |
| A |
The aim of the treatment is to remove all infection from the root canal. The root is then cleaned and filled to prevent any further infection. |
Most courses of treatment will involve between one and three visits lasting up to an hour each.
The infected pulp is removed and any abscesses which may be present, drained. The root canal is then cleaned and shaped ready for the filling. When all the infection is cleared, the permanent root filling is placed.
Your first appointment will be for an examination, x-rays and treatment planning. Unless you are in pain we will not usually carry out any treatment at your first visit. |
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Q |
What will my tooth look like after treatment? |
| A |
In the past, a root filled tooth would often darken after treatment. However, with modern techniques this does not usually happen. If there is any discolouration, there are several treatments available to restore the natural appearance. We will leave your tooth with a semi-permanent white filling to allow your own dentist to decide the best way to restore the crown (visible part) of the tooth. |
| Q |
What if it happens again? |
| A |
Root canal treatment is usually very successful. However, no medical or dental treatment can guarantee 100% success. If the infection comes back the treatment can sometimes be repeated. Further treatment options include an operation called an apicectomy, referral to a specialist but, as a last resort, extraction may be the only option. |
| Q |
How much does it cost? |
| A |
There is an up to date fee guide on our website: www.ilikemysmile.co.uk. |
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Q |
What if I don't have the treatment? |
| A |
The alternative is to have the tooth out. Once the pulp is destroyed, it can't heal and it is not recommended to leave an infected tooth in the mouth.
Although at first it may seem easier to have the tooth out, especially if it is at the back, it is always best to keep as many natural teeth as possible. |
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What about aftercare? |
| A |
Our patients comfort is very important to us, after your root treatment you may experience some slight discomfort, and you will be advised to take some pain relief for a few days. You can contact us any time post operatively, just call our office. When your treatment is complete you will be referred to your family dentist where you can both decide what type of permanent restoration is best. |
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