Root Canal Treatment

Root canal or (Endodontics) is a type of treatment is necessary when the tooth pulp becomes inflamed or infected due to:

• severe decay,
• repeated dental procedures
• a broken crown
• a crack or chip in the tooth
• cracked or loose fillings
• trauma to a tooth, such as a blow to the mouth.

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.

Symptoms of an abscess in your tooth or gum may include:

• an intense, throbbing pain in the affected tooth or gum that may come on suddenly and gets gradually worse
• redness and swelling in your face
• a tender, discoloured and/or loose tooth
• shiny, red and swollen gums
• sensitivity to hot or cold food and drink
• bad breath and/or an unpleasant taste in your mouth

How is root canal treatment performed?

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.

After Endodontic treatment

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.

In most cases, it’s possible to prevent the need for further root canal treatment by:

• maintain good oral hygiene
• avoid too much sugary food
• give up smoking if you smoke

Click here to find out more about our Advanced Treatments.