Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy can relieve pain and restore function to a tooth that would otherwise have to be removed. Years ago, patients would avoid this treatment due to the pain involved. But things have definitely changed. With modern dentistry, it’s now no more painful than a routine filling.
What is a root canal?
At Mount Druitt Dental, our dentists can perform root canal therapy to save your tooth from being removed.
This treatment usually involves:
- drilling into the tooth to remove any infected or inflamed pulp
- cleaning the inside
- filling and sealing the root canal.
Usually, the treatment can be completed in two or three appointments, depending on the condition and size of your tooth.
You will also need a follow-up appointment to place a dental crown on your tooth. This will protect the tooth and restore it to full function.
If you don’t get the crown, your tooth will weaken and possibly fracture or break.
Signs you might need Root Canal Therapy
A tooth can become damaged or infected for various reasons, including:
- deep decay
- repeated dental procedures on the tooth
- a crack or chip in the tooth
- an injury that causes no external damage.
Therefore, you must see your dentist if you have any of these issues with your teeth:
- pain
- prolonged sensitivity to cold or heat
- tenderness to touch
- discolouration
- swollen gums.
These may be signs that you need a Root Canal. If you leave any inflammation or infection untreated, an abscess can form at the root of your tooth. This can cause facial swelling and severe pain. However, sometimes you might not have any symptoms at all, which is why it’s essential to keep up your regular check-ups. A dentist will be able to spot a problem, even if you can’t see or feel it yet.
