Getting to the Root of Tooth Infection Problems
The root canals contain the pulp chamber, which surrounds the living tissue of the tooth, including the nerves and blood vessels. Once the pulp is infected or damaged as a result of injury or trauma, it effectively starts to die because the blood supply is cut. This increases the risk of further infection and abscesses. In cases where the tooth is infected and the infection has reached the pulp chamber, patients usually have a choice of tooth extraction or root canal treatment. Root canal treatment is often our preference because we always do our best to save a tooth.
What is root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment is a very effective procedure often used as an alternative to extraction. It is, in effect, a treatment used to save an infected tooth.
The procedure involves removing decayed tissue from the root canals. Your dentist will remove all the decayed and damaged pulp and the root canals will then be cleaned thoroughly to prevent bacteria from spreading to the roots of the tooth. Once the root canals are clean and free from infection, they are sealed.
Root canal treatment is usually carried out under local anaesthetic to prevent any pain. After the procedure, it is common for a new crown to be fitted to strengthen the tooth. Initially, a temporary crown will be placed and this will be replaced with a new crown around two weeks later.
Is root canal treatment painful?
Root canal treatment has a bad reputation, but it is actually a very effective and important treatment and it is carried out under anaesthetic to minimise pain. After treatment you may feel very mild discomfort, but you should not experience any pain during treatment as the tooth will be numb.
What are the advantages of root canal treatment?
The major advantage of root canal treatment is that it can save a tooth that would otherwise have to be extracted. This treatment also helps to prevent further infection and abscesses, which are often very painful. Treatment also increases the strength of the tooth and enables you to use the tooth without feeling pain or sensitivity. Contact the team in central London for more information.
