Root Canal Treatment
Root Canal Treatment in Burton and Ashby in Staffordshire
Root Canal Treatment/Therapy Also called Endodontics) is needed when the nerve or blood supply of a tooth (known as the pulp) is infected as a result of tooth decay or injury.
Reasons For Root Canal Treatment
If the pulp becomes infected, the infection may spread throughout the root canal system of the tooth. This eventually leads to the formation of an abscess.
If root canal treatment (RCT) is not carried out, the infection will spread and the tooth may need to be taken out (extracted).
What Root Canal Treatment (RCT) Involves
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.
During treatment a local anaesthetic is used and it should feel no different to having an ordinary filling done.
However, after the procedure post-operative discomfort should be expected in some cases.
Root canal treatment is a skilled and time-consuming procedure. A course of treatment will involve at least one long visit to the surgery.
At this appointment the infected pulp is removed. Any abscesses (which may be present) can be drained at this time. Antibiotic therapy may also be indicated. The root canal is then cleaned and shaped ready for the filling.
(A temporary filling is sometimes put into the tooth to allow it to settle).
When all the infection has been cleared, the tooth is then filled permanently.
At Alexandra Dental care we use the latest Nickel Titanium instruments which are single use and disposed of as per Department of Health Guidelines so you can be assured that we use the latest techniques and equipment to maximise the success of your treatment and your comfort.
RCT can take some hours to perform successfully and subsequently costs more than a standard restoration or filling.
Appearance
A root filled tooth will often darken after treatment, with modern techniques the discolored tooth can have it's natural appearance restored using cosmetic veneers or crowns.
Alternative Treatment
The alternative to RCT is to have the tooth extracted. Once the pulp is destroyed, it cannot heal and it is not recommended to leave an infected tooth in the mouth. Although some people would prefer an extraction, it is usually best to keep as many natural teeth as possible.
Subsequent Treatment
It is usually best to restore the tooth in the future with a crown to provide extra support and strength to the tooth. This can also improve the cosmetic appearance of the tooth.
A root treated tooth should be cared for like any other tooth.
Teeth should be cleaned twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Regular dental examinations are advised. More complex restorations like root fillings and crowns require even more careful maintenance and monitoring.
