Dentist in Hendon

Root Canal

Treating Infected teeth

What is Root Canal Treatment?

Regular dental exams are a critical part of preventive health care. During a dental exam, the dentist or hygienist will clean your teeth and check for cavities and gum disease. The exam includes evaluating your risk of developing other oral problems and checking your face, neck and mouth for abnormalities. A dental exam might also include dental X-rays.

When is Root Canal Treatment needed?

Root canal treatment is typically needed when the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or damaged. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, such as tooth decay, cracks or chips in the tooth, or trauma to the tooth. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other teeth or even to other parts of the body.

Signs that a Root Canal Treatment may be necessary include:
  • Severe tooth pain
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
  • Swelling around the affected tooth
  • Discoloration of the affected tooth
  • Tenderness or swelling of the gums near the affected tooth
The Root Canal Treatment Process

The root canal treatment process typically involves the following steps:

  1. Examination and X-rays: Before the root canal treatment, the dentist or endodontist will examine the tooth and take X-rays to determine the extent of the damage and the best course of treatment.

  2. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is used to numb the area around the tooth being treated.

  3. Removing the Pulp: The dentist or endodontist will make a small hole in the top of the tooth to access the pulp. They will then remove the infected or damaged pulp from the tooth.

  4. Cleaning and Shaping the Canal: Once the pulp has been removed, the dentist or endodontist will clean and shape the canal to prepare it for the filling material.

  5. Filling the Canal: The canal is then filled with a material called gutta-percha, which is a rubber-like material.

  6. Placing a Filling: After the canal has been filled, a temporary filling will be placed in the tooth to protect it.

  7. Restoring the Tooth: Depending on the extent of the damage to the tooth, a permanent filling or crown may be needed to restore the tooth to its full function.

After the procedure, it is normal to experience some discomfort and sensitivity. This can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

Benefits of Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment has many benefits, including:

  • Relieving pain and discomfort
  • Saving the affected tooth from further damage or decay
  • Preventing the spread of infection
  • Restoring the tooth’s function and appearance

If you think you may need root canal treatment, it is important to see a dentist or endodontist as soon as possible. Delaying treatment can lead to further complications and may make the procedure more difficult. With proper care, a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment can last a lifetime.

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