Root Canal Treatment

The crown of the tooth is made up of the hard, white, enamel layer and a thicker dentine layer. Both these hard layers protect the innermost soft tissues of the tooth called the pulp. The dental pulp contains blood vessels and nerves within and extends from the crown to the tips of the root or roots. Root canal treatment involves the removal of the pulp tissues from the tooth in the event that it gets infected or inflamed. The pulp can be infected or inflamed due to either deep decay or a large filling that involves the pulp, cracked or fractured tooth due to trauma, excessive wear of enamel and dentine exposing the pulp, and sometimes as a result of severe gum disease. Signs of pulp damage may include pain, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, discoloration of the tooth, swelling, tenderness of the overlying gums or a bad taste in the mouth.

On the other hand, there may be no symptoms at all. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can eventually cause pain, swelling and loss of the supporting bone. Root canal treatment’ is another name for endodontic treatment. In previous years, your tooth would have been removed under similar circumstances, but now we can save affected teeth and keep your smile natural for even longer. Below are some signs that you may require a root canal treatment:

• A dull ache from a tooth
• Over-sensitivity to hot and cold foods and dinks
• Pain when biting or chewing
• Swollen gum tissue
• Facial swelling

Modern dental technology has made root canal treatments both routine and stress-free, so even anxious patients can decide to keep their teeth in healthy shape. If endodontic therapy is recommended, your dentist will explain the procedure in detail so that you know what to expect. After treatment, the tooth may be sensitive or tender for a few days due to inflammation of the surrounding tissues. This discomfort can be relieved by taking mild analgesics or painkillers available over the counter at the pharmacy. However, if the pain persists and is severe, or a swelling occurs, you should contact your dentist.