Also known as root canal treatment, endodontics is concerned with treating the infection at the centre of the tooth (the root canal system). The aim of root canal treatment at Larkham House is to prevent your tooth from requiring extraction by removing the damaged pulp and treating the infection.
If left untreated, the pulp can become infected and this may spread to the root canal, causing pain or leading to an abscess. Sometimes your tooth may look darker in colour than your other teeth, which means that the nerve inside your tooth is dead or dying. Without treatment, the infection may spread further into your jawbone and you may need to have your tooth taken out.
During root canal or endodontic treatment, the inflamed or infected pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected, then the tooth is filled, sealed and restored with either a crown or filling for protection, leaving it as good as new. In most cases, the inflamed tissue near the tooth will heal naturally.
It’s important to look after your teeth after root canal treatment. Avoid biting on hard foods until all of your treatment is complete. After your final treatment, your restored tooth may feel sensitive for a few days.
Over-the-counter painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, can be used to relieve any discomfort. Return to your dentist if you continue to experience pain or swelling after using painkillers.
You might also be recommended by your dentist to get a crown or an onlay on top to help strengthen your remaining tooth to prevent further damage.
In most cases, it’s possible to prevent the need for further root canal treatment by:
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