Root Canal Treatment
When Is Root Canal Treatment Needed?
The crown of the tooth is made up of the hard, white, enamel layer and a thicker dentine layer. Both these hard layers protect the innermost soft tissues of the tooth called the pulp. The dental pulp contains blood vessels and nerves within and extends from the crown to the tips of the root or roots.
Root canal treatment involves the removal of the pulp tissues from the tooth in the event that it gets infected or inflamed. The pulp can be infected or inflamed due to either deep decay or an extensive restoration that involves the pulp, cracked or fractured tooth due to trauma, excessive wear of enamel and dentine exposing the pulp, and sometimes as a result of severe gum disease.
Signs of pulp damage may include pain, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, discoloration of the tooth, swelling, tenderness of the overlying gums or a bad taste in the mouth. On the other hand, there may be no symptoms at all. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can eventually cause pain, swelling and loss of the supporting bone.
What Are The Advantages Of Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment saves teeth that would otherwise have been extracted.
After root canal treatment the tooth is pulp-less i.e. it has no vital tissues within. However, there are vital tissues surrounding the root e.g. the gum, periodontal membrane and supporting bone. A root canal treated tooth can function normally and can be maintained with routine dental care and oral hygiene measures.
Is Root Canal Treatment Painful?
Root canal treatment procedures are relatively comfortable and often painless as the tooth is anaesthetised during treatment. After treatment, the tooth may be sensitive or tender for a few days due to inflammation of the surrounding tissues. This discomfort can be relieved by taking mild analgesics or painkillers available over the counter at the pharmacy. However, if the pain persists and is severe, or a swelling occurs, you should contact your dentist.
Patient Review for Root Canal Treatment at Bay House Dental Practice
All I can say is WOW!
Not having.a dentist for a few years and then I came across this place.
Was so nervous going to the dentist at first knowing that I needed root canal treatment and was absolutely petrified about having it done. All the staff were very welcoming which helped me calm down slightly but as soon as I got into the chair and was greeted by the amazing Dr Webber and his assistant my worries almost completely vanished. They were so understanding and patient, it really made me feel at ease and to my surprise the treatment was painless.
I also needed my front teeth fixed as they had worn away for a few years now and had them done today. I can’t remember the last time I smiled but today I haven’t stopped. Dr Webber is definitely my favourite dentist I have ever had!!!! Absolutely incredible place and amazing staff. My children are also patients here and they are absolutely amazing with children too. I would highly recommend!!!
– Mark Thomas (Review left on Google)
Please call us on 029 2023 1258 if you would like to know more about the practice or book an appointment.
