Here at Confidental, we understand that the words ‘Root Canal Treatment’ can cause anxiety and fear for many people. Our dentists are dedicated to ensuring your root canal treatment does not cause you discomfort and is as stress free as possible.
This vital restorative treatment, also known as Endodontics, is now typically very successful at saving a tooth and clearing any infection you may have (and despite the rumours, the treatment is pain free)! If you are suffering from a persistent dull toothache or jaw ache, this could be signs of a root canal issue.
At the centre of the tooth is the nerve or dental pulp. Sometimes, the nerve in the tooth may become infected and left un-treated, can become very painful.
Symptoms of infection may include swelling of the gum, pain with hot or cold drinks, or pain on biting. Root canal treatment aims to stop the pain, remove the infection and seal the inside of the tooth to prevent it happening again.
Infection can start for several reasons:
The infected dental pulp is removed and the root canal system is thoroughly cleaned and sealed. A rubber sheet (rubber dam) is routinely used throughout the procedure to isolate the tooth to help disinfect the tooth thoroughly. This treatment is usually carried out with the use of a microscope and under local anaesthetic.
Treatment is normally completed in a couple of visits, this will depend on the tooth needing treatment. Root canal treatment is successful in around 90% of cases. If your tooth is not suitable for root canal treatment or the chance of success is unfavourable, you will be informed at the time of consultation or during the treatment.
The alternative to root canal treatment is often removal of the tooth. If this happens, consideration can be given to replacing the tooth with an implant, bridge or partial denture.
Root canal treatment has a reputation for causing pain. If done properly, this should never be the case.
The root canal is meticulously cleaned, shaped and decontaminated, before securely filling it back up with a durable, inert material. This means you can be pain free whilst keeping your original tooth. There have been great innovations in the last few years to improve the comfort, speed and efficiency of this treatment.
All treatment will be carried out under local anaesthetic, so there should be no reason that the treatment should be uncomfortable.
On your first visit, a full consultation and dental examination will be carried out, along with appropriate X-rays. This helps to make an accurate assessment and diagnosis so as to provide you with the most appropriate advice regarding your tooth. We will then explain and discuss their findings, treatment options and costs with you.
Should you have any questions or queries regarding the proposed treatment plan, they will be happy to answer any queries or concerns you have.
Treatment is not normally carried out on this visit. However, if you are in pain or have sustained a recent dental injury and your dentist makes this known beforehand, then treatment may be commenced.
The costs associated with this procedure can vary depending on such factors as the severity of damage to the affected tooth and which tooth is affected. In general, endodontic treatment is much less expensive than tooth removal and replacement with an artificial tooth.
An estimate of costs will be provided before commencement of treatment.
It is rare for patients to experience complications after treatment. However, if a problem does occur, you should contact us immediately so that we can help.
To prevent further dental decay and to ensure good dental health, continue with regular check-ups and Hygiene visits. Our Membership Plans offer a range of great value options that spread the cost of ongoing care, please contact us for more details or see below.
