Root Canal Treatment

Though most people are not aware of it, root canal treatment is a conservative treatment option. The procedure actually relieves pain and saves a tooth that would otherwise require extraction and replacement. If you suffer from an acute toothache or have been advised that you need root canal therapy, call Docklands Dental Studio today for a consultation.

Why Does a Tooth Need Root Canal Treatment?

When a tooth develops deep decay or sustains a fracture that provides access for bacteria to enter the tooth’s core, root canal treatment is indicated. Bacterial infection in the central chamber of a tooth causes irreparable damage. A tooth’s inner chamber houses pulp, which contains the nerve, blood vessels, and connective tissues. When bacteria grow within the pulp, pressure on the nerve can cause excruciating pain. Without root canal treatment, the tooth will die, and infection can spread to the blood stream.

What Happens During the Procedure?

Often, we complete a root canal procedure in a single appointment. You will be made comfortable and receive anesthetic prior to treatment. Root canal therapy involves making entry in the tooth and removing all infected tissue from the tooth’s inner chamber and the root canals that branch off from the chamber. After sanitizing the chamber and canals, a manmade substance (gutta percha, in most cases) is placed into the tooth to seal it. Finally, we attach a crown to the tooth to repair the entry hole, as well as decay or fracture, and to restore the tooth’s integrity, shape, and comfortable function.

Does Root Canal Therapy Always Work?

Statistically, root canal therapy is successful 85-97% of the time, which indicates that it is usually a successful procedure. Patients enjoy relief from pressure and infection, without having to undergo extraction and replacement of the damaged tooth. Natural occlusion is maintained, as well.

Root canal treatment involves cleaning tiny canals, and we employ rotary tools for this task. Common causes for root canal treatment failure include missed canals, incompletely treated canals or remaining infected tissue, and fracture. By using x-rays, microscopes, and micro-instruments, our staff reduces the risk of failure. If your case appears complex upon initial examination, we will refer you to an endodontist. This dental specialist is specifically trained to treat conditions involving the inside of teeth.

When a root canal fails, retreatment is sometimes an option. The only alternative is extraction of the affected tooth, followed by replacing the tooth to ensure good oral health, retention of proper occlusion, and proper function.

Schedule Your Consultation Now

If you have an intense toothache that won’t subside with over-the-counter pain relievers, you need a dental checkup. Should your evaluation reveal an internally infected tooth, we will likely suggest root canal treatment. Please ask questions and share your concerns; the more informed you are, the more confident you’ll feel making treatment decisions. Call Docklands Dental Studio today to reserve a consultation with one of our respected general dentists.