| What is Root Canal Treatment |
| A root canal treatment is required
when the blood & nerve supply in a tooth becomes infected this
can be caused by either decay or a blow to the mouth. When the infection
spreads down the root canal of the tooth it usually cause an abscess
& this can be rather painful.
A TYPICAL ROOT CANAL TREATMENT Root treatment usually takes two appointments, it is a skilled procedure & therefore takes time. Usual appointment lengths are 20 -60 minutes. (Dependent on the size of the tooth). X-rays will be taken to assess the treatment required. At the first appointment the pulp is removed, from the root canal,. If an abscess is present it will be drained. Further x-rays may be taken to measure the roots length. The root canal is cleaned & a dressed to treat the infection & a temporary filling is placed in the tooth. At the next appointment the temporary filling is removed & the tooth is checked for infection. If all is well the roots are sealed & a permanent filling is placed in the tooth , otherwise, another appropriate treatment to get the tooth back to its usual function. BENEFITS The tooth is not dead after a root canal treatment but it is weaker. There is no natural inside to the tooth. The benefits are the tooth is saved & not extracted, it can therefore be used as normal, however may in the future need crowning. Cost To save a tooth which is dying requires time, specialised equipment & skill on the part of the dentist, the procedure is very detailed. The type of the tooth will reflect the fees incurred. LOOKING AFTER A ROOT TREATED TOOTH A root treated tooth is more brittle than normal & may discolour over time. The tooth will require careful monitoring, therefore visit the dentist regularly. As always, brush & floss thoroughly. Ask your dentist or one of the dental team for more information. Call us for an appointment on 0115 9283253 or email us on info@wollatondentalcare.co.uk |
