Root Canal Treatment is used to clear out an infection that exists at the centre of a tooth (the root canal system). The name of this treatment can often spark a wide variety of questions and sometimes even panic those that are particularly nervous at the thought of treatment. In our latest post, we discuss root canal treatment and answer some commonly asked questions.
How is the Infection Caused?
The infection that leads to the requirement of root canal treatment is caused by bacteria that live in the mouth and attack a tooth. Common reasons why the bacteria may invade a tooth include tooth decay, damage to the teeth as a result of a trauma, or an insecure filling.
When is Root Canal Treatment Needed?
Root canal treatment will only be required if dental X-rays show that the pulp inside a tooth has been damaged by a bacterial infection. If the pulp dies due to the invasion of bacteria, the bacteria can multiply and spread, so treatment to clear the infection should begin promptly in these cases. If left, the infection will become established and root canal treatment may be less effective.
Without dental X-rays confirming whether or not you need root canal treatment, you may be able to spot a pulp infection by the following symptoms:
Pain when eating or drinking hot or cold food and drink
Pain when biting or chewing
A loose tooth
It is important to remember that as the pulp dies, such symptoms may fade – it is sometimes due to the fade in these symptoms that many believe their infection has cleared. In fact, the infection has made its way to the root canal system for your tooth.
How is Root Canal Treatment Performed?
Dentists will always try to save a tooth, rather than extract it, so if root canal treatment will always be offered, prior to removal, in order to remove the bacteria that has caused the infection.
Once the root canal has been cleaned, it will then be filled and sealed with a filling or crown. The success rate of root canal treatment is very high and in most cases, the tooth can survive for around 10 years after treatment.
Love-Teeth Dental Practice
Here at Love-Teeth Dental Practice, we pride ourselves on providing excellent dental care to all of our patients. We also have the support of our root treatment expert, Gary Zolty. To book an appointment, please call our friendly team today on 0161 773 7080.
