What does it involve?
The aim of the treatment is to remove all infection from the root canal and stop the infection from spreading to the jaw bone which can also pose a serious general health risk. The root is then cleaned and filled to allow the surrounding tissues to heal and prevent further infection.
Over several appointments, the infected pulp is removed and any abscesses are drained. The root canal is then cleaned and shaped so it is ready for filling. A temporary filling is put in and the tooth is left to settle in between appointments. Finally, the tooth is checked again to make sure the infection has cleared and then it is permanently filled.
A crown is often recommended after root canal treatment to give the tooth the best chance of a future by protecting and strengthening.
Root canal treatment (also called endodontics) is needed when the nerve of your tooth or its blood supply (the pulp) has been damaged irreversibly through decay or injury. An infection in the pulp can cause an abscess. An abscess is an inflamed area in which pus collects, and its symptoms range from a dull ache to a severe pain. If the infection is chronic however, and the infection is draining, there may be no pain at all. If root canal treatment is not carried out, the infection will spread and your tooth may need to be taken out. Root canal treatment is a skilled, precise and time-consuming procedure.
Normally, no. A local anaesthetic is used to numb up the tooth and so it usually feels no different to having an ordinary filling done.
The alternative is to take the tooth out. The reason is that once the nerve is destroyed, it can’t heal and we would never recommend leaving an infected tooth in the mouth as it can lead to severe health problems. Although some people might prefer an extraction, we would recommend keeping as many of your natural teeth as possible.
Occasionally we may suggest a referral to a specialist if required.